The Pak–US Friends Forum and World Watch Alert were formally inaugurated in Houston at the Pakistan Association of Greater Houston (PAGH), marking the launch of two platforms focused on dialogue, research, and ethical media engagement between Pakistan and the United States.
The inauguration ceremony was chaired by Asif Ali Bhatti, Chairman and CEO, who outlined the vision behind the initiatives and emphasized the need for credible spaces that encourage dialogue, informed discourse, and responsible communication.
The program featured a keynote address by Dr. Stephen McDowell, Assistant Provost and John H. Phipps Professor of Communication at Florida State University, who spoke on the role of media and communication in shaping international relations. Dr. Asad Ali Shah, Founder of Fake News Watchdog, highlighted the growing threat of disinformation and the need for stronger media accountability.
Najia Ashar, Executive Director of PULSE, spoke on the importance of informing communities and promoting shared responsibility in countering misinformation and strengthening public discourse.
Recorded messages from advisory board members emphasized academic collaboration, ethical journalism, environmental awareness, and fact-based public engagement. A Memorandum of Understanding was also signed with Fake News Watchdog, reinforcing a shared commitment to counter misinformation and strengthen media accountability.
Brief remarks were delivered by speakers from academia, journalism, environmental sciences, business, and media, reflecting the forum’s interdisciplinary approach.
The ceremony concluded with an address by the Chief Guest, Muhammad Aftab Chaudhary, Consul General of Pakistan in Houston, who highlighted the importance of community engagement and dialogue in advancing Pak–US relations.
The event was hosted by Aliha Ali, digital content creator and founder of the Pakistan Youth Forum, who emphasized the role of youth and media in shaping future narratives. The Pak–US Friends Forum and World Watch Alert aim to serve as ongoing platforms for dialogue, research, and responsible storytelling across borders.
Photo Courtesy: ClicksClips.Studio & American Urdu TV
