WHEREAS, M. Siddique Sheikh has promoted economic cooperation between the United States and Pakistan as chairman and founder of the Pakistan American Business Association, based in Burke; and
WHEREAS, Siddique Sheikh immigrated to the United States nearly 40 years ago with little to support himself, aside from a will to succeed; he completed training in auto engineering while working odd jobs and ultimately saved enough money to buy his first service station; and
WHEREAS, Siddique Sheikh worked extremely long hours and soon was able to buy more stations; as he gained financial security, he branched out into other areas of commerce and community-building endeavors; and
WHEREAS, in an effort to assist fellow Pakistanis who were new to America, Siddique Sheikh started the Pakistan American Business Association in 1986, with a focus on leadership training, community service, business networking, and business conventions and trade shows; and
WHEREAS, Siddique Sheikh's tireless work has fostered communication and understanding between Pakistanis and Americans and has served to further education for citizens of both nations; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED by the Senate of Virginia, That M. Siddique Sheikh hereby be commended for his contributions to the Commonwealth, the United States, and Pakistan as a business leader and dedicated community member; and, be it
RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the Senate prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to M. Siddique Sheikh as an expression of the Senate of Virginia's admiration for his personal and professional achievements.