Pakistan High Commission London celebrates Independence Day

London, August 14, 2014 (PPI-OT): In order to mark the 68th Independence Day of Pakistan, a flag hoisting ceremony was held at the Pakistan High Commission London on 14 August 2014. Acting High Commissioner Mohammad Imran Mirza hoisted the national flag and the messages of the President and the Prime Minister of Pakistan for this occasion were read out by the Acting High Commissioner and Minister Political Dr Israr Hussain respectively.

In their messages, both the leaders extended heartiest felicitation to the entire nation on this auspicious occasion and paid fulsome tribute to the heroic struggle of the Muslims of Sub-continent under the leadership of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah for a separate homeland.

President Mamnoon Hussain said in his message:

“A state created through democratic process, rule of law and constitutionalism is being governed today by a democratically elected government. Let us pledge today that we would continue to uphold the banners of democracy, constitutionalism and rule of law and let us reiterate our commitment to follow the principles of Unity, Faith and Discipline as our strength and guide towards reaching our ultimate destination.”

In his message, Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif said:

“The Pakistan envisioned by the Quaid was to be democratic, moderate and progressive, governed by the rule of law and guaranteeing equal rights to all its citizens. Sadly, too often in our short and turbulent history, we have fallen short of living up to this ideal. So let us, on this day, redeem our pledge to build the Quaid’s Pakistan. To do this we must first reclaim our country from forces of darkness and obscurantism. Operation Zarb-e-Azb is a step in that direction.”

The Prime Minister said it was the duty of all patriotic Pakistanis to stand behind our gallant armed forces as they fight to keep Quaid’s Pakistan alive. He said the need of the hour was unflinching resolve and absolute unity.

Addressing the community on this occasion, Acting High Commissioner Mohammad Imran Mirza extended his heartfelt felicitation to the Pakistani diaspora living in the UK. He called for dedicating our energies to develop Pakistan into a moderate, peaceful and progressive nation as envisioned by Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Muhammad Iqbal.

The Acting High Commissioner said:

“Pakistan is passing through a critical juncture of its history as we are faced with the menace of extremism and militancy that has claimed thousands of innocent lives including armed forces and civilians. I honour the spirit of patriotism of these men, women and children. Let us renew our resolve to never forget the sacrifices of our martyrs.”

Speaking about the people of IDPs of Waziristan, Mr Mirza said:

“In these moments of celebration, our thoughts and prayers remain with the courageous people of Waziristan who have been forced to evacuate their homes and hearth as our brave and valiant soldiers conduct an operation to rid Pakistan of the scourge of terrorism.”

On this occasion, the school children presented popular national songs. Begum Aysha Imran Mirza cut the cake and gave away prizes to school children.

Besides officials of the High Commission and their families, a large number of Pakistani diaspora and media representatives attended the ceremony. Head of Chancery Mustafa Rabbani moderated the event. Similar events were held at all the four consulates of Pakistan in Birmingham, Manchester, Bradford and Glasgow.

For more information, contact:
Head of Chancery
High Commission for Pakistan in United Kingdom
34 – 36 Lowndes Square
London
SW1X 9JN,
Official
Mr. Shahid Nawaz
Tel: 020 7664 9271
Supervisor
Mr. Shahab-ud-Din
Fax: 020 7664 9255