National anthem launched in choral format

Event celebrates Pakistan-Romania ties, gathers envoys of friendly countries

ISLAMABAD:

The Senate of Pakistan hosted a distinguished cultural and diplomatic event, bringing together ambassadors of friendly countries, senators and other guests to mark the official launch of the national anthem of Pakistan, the Qaumi Tarana, in a choral format.

The programme commenced with an informal gathering of ambassadors hosted by Chairman of the Senate, Yusuf Raza Gilani. The event also celebrated the enduring partnership between Pakistan and Romania through a diplomatic exhibition dedicated to over six decades of Romania–Pakistan bilateral relations, highlighting key milestones in political dialogue, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange.

The exhibition was officially opened through a ribbon-cutting ceremony jointly conducted by Chairman Gillani and Ambassador of Romania to Pakistan Dan Stoenescu. Foreign Ambassadors and Pakistani parliamentarians toured the exhibition while reflecting on their shared commitment to strengthening international cooperation and friendship.

A highlight of the event was the performance of the national anthem of Pakistan in its choral arrangement by the Romanian National Chamber Choir "Madrigal - Marin Constantin," presented during the opening of the Senate plenary session in the presence of ambassadors, senators and distinguished guests.

On this occasion, Chairman Gillani recalled that, on Pakistan Day (23 March) this year, Romania offered Pakistan the first-ever professional choral arrangement and written score of its national anthem. This landmark cultural initiative was presented to the Senate on the auspicious day when Pakistan played a crucial diplomatic role in reaching a ceasefire in the Middle East.

He further expressed his appreciation to the Romanian authorities for their support in advancing this historic initiative, emphasising that the project represents a lasting cultural bridge between Pakistan and Romania, symbolising friendship, mutual respect and a shared vision for deepening bilateral relations. During the plenary session, senators from both the government and opposition benches also expressed their gratitude to Romania for this historic gesture.

The event reaffirmed the strength of Romania-Pakistan relations and underscored the vital role of cultural diplomacy in bringing nations closer together.

The ceremony concluded with a networking session where diplomats, senators, and cultural representatives engaged in discussions on future collaborations in arts, education, and heritage preservation.

Chairman Gilani highlighted that such initiatives not only celebrate national pride but also foster people-to-people connections, encouraging continued cultural exchange and mutual understanding between Pakistan and its international partners.