An Impressive Presentation at the UAE Embassy in Washington
By C. Naseer Ahmad
An impressive presentation on “Modern American Women – the New Generation” featuring Austrian writer Judith Hornok, author and communications expert focusing on the Middle East, took place at the United Arab Emirates Embassy in Washington. The program was hosted by His Excellency Yousef Al Otaiba, UAE Ambassador to the United States and organized by the World Affairs Council DC. Participants in this engaging discussion represented a diverse group of intellectuals and scholars in Washington. Senior embassy staff gave a warm welcome to the guests and a refreshing exposure to Emerati culture and hospitality.
During her talk, Ms Hornok gave a moving presentation of stories about impressive young Arab women who are entrepreneurs and successful business women. Her remarks showed a keen understanding of modern Arab culture – as she is a frequent traveler between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states and the West. Ms Hornok is known to promote cultural understanding through various seminars and lectures between Arab countries and the West. Her work is an attempt “to bridge the gap between the Arab World and the rest of the world.” Her book “Modern Arab Women” aims to dispel cultural misconceptions and stereotypes.
A visit to the marvelous UAE Embassy is a delightful experience. The architecture of the building is amazing as is the warmth of the staff. Each guest is treated with dignity and respect by Embassy Chief of Staff Dima Alfaham and Dr Saghira Al Ahbabi. Participants of this seminar were treated with plentiful delicious Middle-East food.
UAE is a destination of choice for Pakistani migrant workers, businessmen and travelers. Cultural heritage, a long history of friendship – not to mention common interests and geography play a major role in binding ties. A prosperous UAE is also something that Pakistani immigrants and investors would wish for. Like many other common interests, Pakistan and UAE have embassies in the same cul-de-sac in Washington.
Hosting of this interesting seminar is a testament to UAE’s commitment to education. It is no small wonder then that UAE’s Ambassador Yousef Al Otaiba is one of the honorees at the March 7, 2013 Global Education Gala organized by the World Affairs Council DC. He will receive the Distinguished Diplomatic Service Award on behalf of his nation’s diplomatic corps in the United States. Ambassador Otaiba is quoted to have said: “UAE diplomats work tirelessly to increase understanding and collaboration between nations, and help promote social and economic development — key pillars of the UAE’s foreign policy.
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