Author: Riyadh: Abdul Hannan Tago, Arab News StaffPublication Date: Thu, 2012-03-01 02:50
This famous quote by former US President John F. Kennedy provided food for thought at a recent high-profile ambassadors’ gathering at the Riyadh Palace Hotel in the capital hosted by a prominent Pakistani doctor.
This message came across at a get-together for the diplomatic and business communities hosted by Dr. Mansour Memon to drive home the point that diplomacy and leadership skills need not necessarily be confined to the diplomats and political leaders alone, but individuals with high aspirations and ambitions for their people and the country could also play a useful role in this regard. Such initiatives could be more useful in serving the national cause.
Memon invited 18 ambassadors and their spouses from various countries, Saudi protocol and several Pakistani businessmen and the media to a reception for Pakistan-friendly countries, including the ambassadors of Britain, Canada, China, New Zealand, Philippines, Norway, Switzerland, Pakistan and alike. Saudi Protocol Chief Ambassador Alauddin Al-Askar was the guest of honor.
Memon’s message not only projected his country’s image as a destination for investors and tourists but also sent a powerful signal to the community that people like him can promote peaceful coexistence and tolerance as part of what they can do for their country in terms of social service.
Many innovative topics were discussed ranging from international interests to personal friendship during the gathering.
Memon and his wife Dr. Erum Qalbani were praised for hosting such a high profile diplomatic event at a very personal level. Al-Askar said: “It is a personal initiative to inspire many and this reflects the highest degree of hospitality traits the Memon family has.”
Al-Askar added that Memon’s father was a senior bureaucrat in Pakistan. Pakistani investor Malik Ejan Hussain said events of this stature depict bilateral relations between the Kingdom and Pakistan.
He said during the reception, he and the officials of the Pakistani Embassy conveyed a message to the international community about the progressive nature of the country’s population.
Memon said he would host at least two or three such receptions every year by inviting ambassadors based in Riyadh from the embassies of Pakistan-friendly countries.
He said Pakistan has rich culture and traditions. Memon spends time and money to help strengthen ties between the Riyadh-based Pakistani business community, ambassadors of friendly countries and distinguished Saudis.
Referring to the business environment in his country, he said Pakistan offers lucrative business and investment opportunities for foreign investors. Pakistan has a wealth of tourist attractions for people, including nature lovers and those interested in cultural tourism, he added. “All this makes Pakistan a perfect destination for international tourists,” he added.
