Embassy of Pakistan

HHS Political Science students visited the Embassy of Pakistan on November 15th, 2007. The Deputy Chief of Mission, Muhammad Aslam Khan shown here with Abe and Asbah, delivered a speech on the historical relationship of Pakistan and the United States and then answered questions. Mr. Khan explained that he understood the students desire for accurate information about Pakistan and therefore announced that he would NOT answer questions as a diplomat might, but instead be as frank and truthful as possible. Accordingly he required that no statements made be attributed to him in any media. As a result there are student questions below, but not his responses.

Chris- Do you think India will try to take advantage of instability in Pakistan and cause problems in Kashmir?

Iman- Benazir Bhutto has alleged that people in the Musharraf government may have played a role in the bombings that took place when she arrived in Pakistan. What is your reaction to that accusation?

Emily- American taxpayers have given Pakistan 10 billion dollars since 2001. Do you think that has been a good investment for the United States?

Abe- Would Pakistan support the United States or Israel using military force to make sure Iran would not have nuclear weapons?

Morgan (left, with Jessica)- What was your reaction when Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama stated that if he was president and Pakistan was unwilling or unable to attack Al Qaeda, he would order American forces to attack them in Pakistan?

Asbah (in Urdu)- Were you angry with Newsweek magazine when they made this accusation about your nation?

Andi- President Musharraf declared the state of emergency because of the threat of terrorists. But some have charged that he did that as a way of keeping himself in power. Which reason do you think is more accurate?

Ben- President Musharraf compared his suspending the constitution to Abraham Lincoln taking similar actions during our Civil War. Do you think that is an accurate comparison?

Marshall- President Musharraf said the postponed elections would take place in January. However can you have fair elections if there is not a free press?

Catherine- We often hear reports of conflict between Pakistan and India in Kashmir. But China also controls part of Kashmir. Does Pakistan have any conflicts with China on this issue?

Rachel- Next year is an election year in the U.S. Does your government have a preference of a candidate or party regarding the next president of the United States?

Barbara (right) In President Musharraf's book "In the Line of Fire" he wrote that Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage told him that Pakistan would be bombed "back to the stone age" if Pakistan did not do what America wanted. Is there resentment towards the United States because of statements like that?

Rebecca and Andi

Anthony and Anna

Asbah presents Mr. Khan with HHS gear in appreciation for meeting with us.

Asbah and Abe

Abe

Chris

Mr. Khan give Abe and Asbah his card.