The High Commission of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in Maldives celebrated Pakistan Day on Saturday with ‘national spirit’.
A flag hoisting ceremony was held at the High Commission to celebrate the day, where the National Anthem was played while H.E. Vice Admiral (R) Muhammad Fayyaz Gilani, High Commissioner hoisted the National Flag. Several Pakistani citizens living in the Maldives attended the ceremony.
H.E. Vice Admiral (R) Muhammad Fayyaz Gilani, High Commissioner while speaking at the occasion, said that 23rd March is an important day in Pakistan’s national history that reminds us of the country’s past, invites us to ponder over the country’s present state of affairs and inspires us to build a prosperous future. We are reminded of the vision and determination of our forefathers.
He said that the Pakistan Resolution of 1940 marked a crucial turning point, setting the course for the establishment of Pakistan on 14th August 1947. He said that Pakistan has distinguished itself by standing for the supremacy of UN Charter and international law. It has upheld the principles of sovereign equality
of states and peaceful settlement of disputes.
Throughout the country’s history, Pakistan has stood by developing countries and supported the right self-determination of peoples under foreign occupation and colonialism. He paid tribute to the Kashmiri brothers and sisters. He said that our hearts are grieved by the sufferings of our brethren in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted that the support for the Kashmir cause has always been a pillar of Pakistan’s foreign policy
High Commissioner also expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people and said, “our hearts are full of pain for our Palestinian brethren, who are facing the worst forms of war crimes under an oppressive occupation”. He reaffirmed that Pakistan will continue to call for an urgent and unconditional ceasefire, lifting of the siege and humanitarian relief to the people of Gaza.
Earlier, Mr. Zulqurnain Ahmad, Deputy Head of Mission welcomed the guests and extended felicitations on the happy occasion of Pakistan Day. He paid tribute to the forefathers whose boundless sacrifices resulted in the creation of Pakistan. He highlighted the principles of Unity, Faith and Discipline giver by, the father of the Nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. He also appreciated the valuable services of the Pakistanis in the Maldives.
H.E. High Commissioner also extended Ramadan greetings to the Government and brotherly people of the Maldives. He said, “Pakistan and Maldives have been enjoying cordial relations and the bilateral ties would further strengthen in the times to come”
