Pakistan mission in Delhi marks 80th Independence Day

NEW DELHI:

The High Commission for Pakistan in New Delhi celebrated Pakistan's 80th Independence Day with traditional zeal and fervour on Friday.

Chargé d'Affaires Saad Ahmad Warraich highlighted the country's nuclear capability, defence preparedness, regional peace efforts and the need for resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.

He hoisted the national flag during an impressive ceremony at the Chancery Lawns, which was attended by members of the High Commission and their families. Messages from the president, prime minister and deputy prime minister/foreign minister were also read out on the occasion.

In his remarks, the chargé d'affaires said the creation of Pakistan under the dynamic leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah was not merely a triumph of the deep-seated and abiding conviction of the Muslims of the subcontinent to chart a future of their own, but also a fulfilment of their ordained destiny to achieve a separate homeland.

Over the years, he said, Pakistan had made great strides across all spheres of life.

Mr Warraich said Pakistan's nuclear capability was a stabilising factor in South Asia. He said the Marka-e-Haq stood testimony to the country's unswerving resolve to protect and preserve its sovereignty and the dignity of its people.

Paying homage to the great martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the motherland, the chargé d'affaires also lauded the role of the Pakistan armed forces in national defence.

The chargé d'affaires said Pakistan firmly believed in the ideals of peaceful coexistence, dialogue and diplomacy.

The historic agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye represented another milestone in advancing the goal of regional stability and contributing to global peace, he said.

He emphasised that the path to lasting and durable peace in South Asia lay in resolving the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with UN resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Dressed in traditional attire, children performed national songs and delivered speeches highlighting the historic struggle for the creation of Pakistan.

A special cake was also cut on the auspicious occasion.

Mr Warraich also inaugurated a photo exhibition depicting the life, vision and historic struggle of Quaid-e-Azam, specially curated to mark the 150th birth anniversary of the nation's founder this year.