HC in Delhi celebrates Independence Day

National flag hoisted; president, prime minister's messages read out

The High Commission of Pakistan in New Delhi celebrated the 77th Independence Day on Wednesday with national zeal and fervor.

In a dignified ceremony, Chargé d' Affaires of Pakistan to India Saad Ahmad Warraich hoisted the national flag at the Chancery Lawn. Officers and staff of the high commission along with their families were present on the occasion. Messages of the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out to the audience.

Underscoring that August 14, 1947 marked the culmination point of a glorious journey of indomitable will, unparalleled struggle and immense sacrifices, the charge d' affaires said that the heroic tale scripted by the Muslims of the subcontinent to realise the dream of Pakistan is etched in the annals of history.

Warraich paid glowing tributes to the inspired vision of Allama Muhammad Iqbal and the dynamic leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in guiding the Muslims of the subcontinent towards their ordained destiny of a separate homeland of their own.

Emphasising that the foundation of Pakistan was laid on the abiding principles of democracy, social equality and tolerance, Warraich stressed that the nation remains unwavering in its resolve to achieve the ideal of an Islamic welfare state as envisioned by our forefathers.

Noting that Pakistan has achieved important milestones and made great strides since independence, the chargé d' affaires said that the mission towards 'Istehkam-e-Pakistan' is fully underway. He paid rich tributes to the brave sons of the motherland who sacrificed their lives in the defence of their country.

Expressing Pakistan's solidarity with Muslim brothers and sisters under oppression and occupation, Warraich expressed the firm conviction that their valiant struggles for fundamental rights including the right to self-determination, will be crowned with the glory of success.

He added that the goal of durable peace and stability in South Asia is contingent on a peaceful resolution of Jammu and Kashmir dispute, in accordance with UN resolution and wishes of the Kashmiri people.