What Americans Can Do for Pakistan

Sarann Katreeb Graham, Cerritos, CA

I read the Pakistan Link for the first time on the Internet.  I am not a Pakistani: my grandparents came from Syria.  The reason I was prompted to read the Link was because I have friends from Pakistan and have a business client who is also from Pakistan.  One of the articles I read (“An Enlightening Experience” by Dr. Naila Siddiqui, London, UK) was interesting and somewhat amusing, but its conclusion was very thought provoking.  I totally agree with Dr. Siddiqui’s analysis and observations.

I also see many poor countries opening American fast food businesses and introducing other luxury items with the hope that this would provide a fillip to their economy. I strongly believe that if we, the Americans, want to help Third World countries, we should be sharing our educational experiences with them and provide them training opportunities for better paying jobs.  Our American companies should promote more business partnerships to strengthen Third World economic base. 

What are our priorities? I am not a wealthy American but in my small way I try to make a positive impact when I visit a country and give freely my time and knowledge to help others. Dr. Siddiqui’s comment “Pakistani expatriates excel in their specialties.  If given the opportunity, they would become a strong driving force for Pakistan on the road to progress” is true and well meant.  Personally, I know successful Pakistani businessmen who are attempting to transfer technology to their homeland.  To me, this is a sign of good entrepreneurship.