AsiaNet-Pakistan Premier Editorial Content and Press Release Distribution Service
Islamabad, March 23, 2013 (PPI-OT): The Pakistani community in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia today celebrated the Pakistan Day 23rd March, 2013 with simplicity, zeal and fervor. The day started with flag hoisting ceremonies held simultaneously at the Embassy of Pakistan Riyadh and at the residence of the Consul General in Jeddah, says a press release received from Jeddah here today.
The Ambassador of Pakistan, H.E Muhammad Naeem Khan, unfurled the national flag, at a largely attended ceremony held in the Embassy building in Riyadh. Messages of the President and the Prime Minister were read out.
Speaking on the occasion Ambassador said Pakistan is an important member of the world community today. Pakistan’s contribution to the maintenance of peace and security in the world can hardly be matched by any other state. As a front line state in the fight against terror, we have paid a heavy price in terms of loss of precious lives and billions of dollars to the economy.
He said that thousands of our innocent people and valiant soldiers have laid down their lives for the noble cause. But this has only made us more determined and resolute. Pakistan is also one of the largest contributors to the United Nations’ Peacekeeping Force for maintenance of peace and security around the globe.
Ambassador Naeem Khan also said that Pakistan enjoys a special relationship with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, based on the solid foundations of Islamic identity, common historical experiences, and shared perceptions on all national and international issues.
He further said that as keeper of the Holy Lands, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is looked at with deep love by the people of Pakistan. The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, His Majesty King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz, Crown Prince Salman bin Abdul Aziz and the entire royal family are held in high esteem in Pakistan.
In Jeddah, the Consul General, Mr. Aftab Ahmad Khokher, with a presentation of the national anthem performed the national flag hoisting ceremony at his residence in Hayya Rowdha, Jeddah. Earlier verses from the Holy Quran were recited. The members of the Pakistani community, especially women and children, officials of the Consulate, Pakistan largely attended the function. Messages of the President and Prime Minister were read out by Consul General.
In his address to the gathering at his residence, the Consul General Aftab A Khokher said Seventy three years ago, the Muslims of South Asia resolved to establish an independent state where they could lead their lives in accordance with the Islamic ideals of freedom, sovereignty, democracy, equality, justice, tolerance and non-discrimination
He said that everyone acknowledges the valuable contribution of the vibrant and dynamic Pakistan community in Saudi Arabia. Our community has served both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia with characteristic fervor, loyalty, commitment, diligence and dedication. It is, in fact, the most unmistakable link between our two countries. National songs were also played on the occasion. Special Supplements were also published by Daily Arab News, Daily Urdu News and Daily Saudi Gazette on this occasion.
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