Olympic hero Arshad Nadeem to lead flag hoisting at Independence Day celebrations

Olympic hero set to lead flag hoisting, says information minister

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ISLAMABAD:

Federal Minister for Information, Attaullah Tarar, announced that Arshad Nadeem, who recently secured a gold medal at the Paris Olympics, has been invited as the chief guest at Independence Day ceremony on Wednesday.

Nadeem will join Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in the flag-hoisting ceremony, an honour bestowed upon him following his remarkable victory, which has ignited celebrations across the country.

In a press conference, Tarar expressed that "good news is coming from all directions", highlighting the nationwide jubilation over Nadeem's Olympic triumph.

He said that provincial governments, including Punjab, are actively participating in the celebrations.

"Arshad Nadeem was welcomed in an extraordinary manner; his plane was given a water cannon salute," Tarar noted.

The minister informed that Nadeem is scheduled to arrive at Islamabad’s Nur Khan Airbase at 5pm via a special Pakistan Air Force aircraft and will be escorted with full state protocol.

The Prime Minister's House has organized a banquet in honour of Arshad Nadeem, whom Tarar described as "a beacon of inspiration for the youth."

He added, "Nadeem’s journey from Mian Channu to Paris is a unique story that deserves to be captured in a biographical film."

The minister also commended Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for personally visiting Nadeem's home to bestow honours upon him, calling it "a commendable gesture."

Discussing the Independence Day celebrations, Tarar revealed that a major event is planned in Islamabad's F-9 Park, organised under the directives of PM Shehbaz.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting will host Pakistan's first drone show, featuring 500 drones.

"This event will be non-political, focusing solely on the national flag and promoting patriotism," he emphasized.

New visa policy

The information minister also announced the launch of a new visa policy, simplifying the process for visitors from 126 countries.

He explained, "The visa fee for these countries has been abolished, and the application process has been made significantly easier."

He detailed that a simple form with 30 questions will allow applicants to quickly obtain a 90-day visa.

He further stated, "Gulf country residents will also be able to obtain a visa on arrival with just a passport."

Regarding tourism, Tarar assured that security for incoming tourists is a top priority, with the Ministry of Interior coordinating closely with provincial governments to ensure the best possible arrangements.

He highlighted, "The tourism sector, particularly in Gilgit-Baltistan, has seen significant development," and reiterated the government's commitment to providing quality and affordable accommodation for visitors.

The minister concluded by expressing his hope that these initiatives would open Pakistan's doors to the world, showcasing the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

"Allah has blessed our country with every possible resource, and we want the world to come and see it," he said.