78th Pakistan National Day, 2018

The 78th anniversary of Pakistan’s National Day was commemorated in the High Commission of Pakistan, Pretoria with patriotic fervour and zeal.

A flag hoisting ceremony was held in the morning. It was followed by a town hall gathering of over 100 members of Pakistani Community based in Pretoria and beyond. The Deputy Head of Mission read out the messages from the President and Prime Minister for the occasion. An array of speakers also availed the occasion to express their thoughts. This included President of Pakistan South African community, performance by children of Embassy officials, and special prays for a strong and prosperous Pakistan.

The High Commissioner in his address underscored the historical importance of the day and highlighted imperatives that led to conceiving of resolution for creation of a separate state for Muslims of the Sub-continent. He also called upon the community to remain united to overcome any personal or national challenges.

Later in the day, a national day reception was also arranged for the local dignitaries, high officials, community members and business community in a local hotel. The Chief Guest was a senior official of the Department of Human Settlements of South Africa representing his Minister. He spoke for the need to upgrade the content of bilateral relations expand cooperation in areas of interests.

The High Commissioner in his speech underlined need for the commitment to nurture values of tolerance, social harmony and respect for dissent in our society and importance of Pakistan in the regional and global context. He also gave a snapshot of Pakistan’s relations with South Africa. He also mentioned about Pakistan’s support to anti apartheid movement and affection for Nelson Mandela’s personality, as a true leader, in Pakistan. He also stressed that slowly but surely, Pakistan is successfully overcoming its internal and external challenges. He further elaborated upon the prospects of expanding bilateral and multilateral cooperation between Pakistan and South Africa.

A copy of High Commissioner’s message published in a local Daily newspaper ‘The Star’ is annexed for ready reference.

Pretoria
23 March, 2018