On the eve of 78th Independence Day of Pakistan, a flag-hoisting ceremony was held at the Embassy of Pakistan, Beirut which was attended by members of the Pakistani community and the Embassy staff and their families. The event also saw the participation of Lebanese citizens from various walks of life, reflecting the strong bond of friendship between Pakistan and Lebanon.
The ceremony commenced with the hoisting of the national flag by the Ambassador of Pakistan, accompanied by the national anthem. Messages from the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan were also read, highlighting the significance of the day and the nation’s commitment to its founding principles.
H.E. Mr. Salman Athar, Ambassador of Pakistan to Lebanon, in his remarks, paid rich tribute to the founding fathers of Pakistan, acknowledging their sacrifices in securing a homeland for the Muslims of the subcontinent. He emphasized the importance of reflecting on the teachings of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Muhammad Iqbal to gu
ide the nation towards greater achievements. The Ambassador also lauded the progress Pakistan has made over the past 77 years.
On Pakistan-Lebanon relations, the Ambassador mentioned that both countries enjoy close fraternal relations in bilateral and multilateral spheres, underpinned by shared perceptions on several international issues. He hoped that the bilateral relations between the two countries would continue to grow in the years ahead.
The Ambassador also expressed solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), and reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering moral, political and diplomatic support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir until the realization of their legitimate right to self-determination. He called upon the international community to take notice of the massive human rights violations in IIOJK and urged for a just resolution of the long-standing dispute.
At the end, special prayers were offered for progress and prosperity of Pakistan.
Source: National News Agency – Lebanon