Washington, D.C.: Authors, political activists, and journalists gathered at the Washington, D.C. Press Club to discuss "Pakistan’s Deteriorating Relations with Neighbors" at an event organized by the American Friends of Gilgit and Muzaffarabad (AFGM).

The AFGM highlighted the multifaceted challenges posed by China’s expanding influence in the region, particularly its impact on ethnic and religious minorities across Pakistan and neighboring territories.

Key speakers at the event included Bradley Thayer, who delved into the historical rise of communism in China and its repercussions on ethnic and religious minorities within the country. Saleh Hudayar, former Prime Minister of East Turkestan in Exile, discussed China's aggressive policies in Xinjiang and their impact on Uyghur communities, as well as Pakistan's complicity in these actions.

Ngawang Tashi spoke on the destabilizing effects of China’s occupation of Tibet on neighboring regions like Ladakh and India. Hizbullah Kakar, president of the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (US), shed light on the collaboration between the Pakistani army and China in exploiting natural resources, leading to the displacement and marginalization of Pashtun communities.

Ishaq Sharif and Senge Sering made passionate interventions about crackdowns in Muzaffarabad and the strategic importance of Gilgit, respectively, underscoring Pakistan’s controversial control over these regions and the plight of their inhabitants. Priya Saha from Bangladesh highlighted Pakistan’s role in the Bangladeshi genocide and its interference in Bangladeshi affairs, while also echoing concerns over China’s increasing economic influence in Bangladesh.

Jan Jekielek supported the call for raising awareness about the cultural impact of Chinese aggression and stressed the need to educate local congress members on these issues. The event was moderated by Se Hoon Kim, an American journalist working for Global Strat View.

The event concluded with a call for continued advocacy and awareness-raising efforts. Senge Sering expressed gratitude to all participants, invited them to reconvene for dinner, and announced plans for a follow-up event at the same venue, focusing on the impact of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) on local communities.

In a significant move, Sering initiated the membership process for the National Press Club, signaling a commitment to further amplify the voices of marginalized communities in the region. As tensions continue to escalate, events like these serve as crucial platforms for dialogue and advocacy on pressing regional issues.