The 78th Independence Anniversary of Pakistan and Marka-e-Haq was commemorated with traditional zeal and fervor at the Embassy of Pakistan in Abidjan, this morning. A sizable number of Pakistani Diaspora members along with families and their Ivorian friends attended the event. 

Ambassador Mahmood Akhtar Mahmood raised the National Flag to the tune of National Anthem. The ceremony started with the recitation of the Holy Quran. Special messages of the President, the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister /Foreign Minister for the occasion were read out. A special documentary on Marka-e-Haq was also displayed for the audience.

In his remarks, Ambassador Mahmood Akhtar Mahmood paid tribute to the founding fathers of Pakistan whose sacrifice led to the creation of a separate homeland for the Muslims of the Sub-continent. 

Special performances including quiz competition, speeches, paintings/drawings and tableaus were performed by the Pakistani children. The children were given appreciation certificates and gifts. A cake cutting ceremony was also held on the occasion. The event ended with special prayers for the prosperity of Pakistan and its people.