Our family takes immense pride in our daughter, Dr Shareen Iqbal, who has volunteered for many years at the Carter Center, contributing to its impactful mission. We are pleased to share a cherished photograph of Shareen with President and Mrs Carter, taken at the Carter Center
A Tribute to President Carter
By Zafar Iqbal, PhD
Washington, DC
Today, December 29 th 2024, we bid farewell to President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the remarkable age of one hundred. His legacy transcends politics and touches the very essence of humanity. As the longest-living US President, Carter embodied humility, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to service.
Elected as the 39th President in 1976, Carter championed human rights, environmental conservation, and global peace. His leadership was pivotal in achieving the historic Camp David Accords, which brought Egypt and Israel to a landmark peace agreement. Beyond his presidency, Carter’s tireless humanitarian efforts—fighting disease, promoting peace, and building homes through Habitat for Humanity—earned him global admiration.
I fondly recall visiting his peanut farm in Plains, Georgia, during his presidency. Although we missed meeting him, we had the privilege of enjoying a warm interaction with his brother, Billy Carter.
President Carter’s life stands as a testament to true leadership—one rooted not in power but in compassion and purpose. Despite facing criticism from powerful lobbies and corporate interests, his unwavering commitment to justice uplifted countless underprivileged communities worldwide.
Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002, Carter was honored for decades of humanitarian work and his efforts to advance peace, democracy, and social development. The Nobel Committee specifically recognized his contributions to resolving international conflicts, defending human rights, and promoting economic progress, with special acknowledgment of his work through the Carter Center. Founded in 1982, the Center has played a crucial role in monitoring elections, mediating conflicts, and combating diseases globally.
Carter’s remarkable legacy will continue to thrive through the Carter Center in Atlanta, serving as a beacon of inspiration for future generations dedicated to the service of humanity. Our family takes immense pride in our daughter, Dr Shareen Iqbal, who has volunteered for many years at the Center, contributing to its impactful mission. We are pleased to share a cherished photograph of Shareen with President and Mrs Carter, taken at the Carter Center.
President Jimmy Carter was one of the most honorable and respected leaders in modern history. His life serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of compassion, purpose, and service.
