High Commission marks Pakistan’s 76th Independence Anniversary

The Pakistan High Commission in Hulhumale’ held a flag hoisting ceremony on Monday to celebrate the 76th anniversary of Pakistan’s independence.

The ceremony started with the recitation of the Holy Quran, following which the Pakistan High Commissioner Vice Admiral (Retired) Muhammad Fayyaz Gilani hoisted the Pakistan national flag to the tune of the country’s national anthem.

Addressing the gathering, Gilani congratulated Pakistanis on the country’s 76th Independence Anniversary.

He paid tribute to the sacrifices of the founding fathers and workers of the Pakistan Movement.

He singled out Mohammad Ali Jinnah, officially known in Pakistan as the Quaid-e-Azam or “Great Leader”.

“Without the visionary leadership of Quaid-e-Azam and other leaders, the dream of Pakistan would not have seen the light of day,” he said.

He said that as Pakistanis celebrate their independence, they cannot forget their Kashmiri brethren, and their struggle for the right to self-determination. 

Gilani also extended the best wishes to the Maldives, expressing confidence the strong relations between Maldives and Pakistan will further strengthen in the years to come.

Earlier, Deputy High Commissioner Zulqurnain Ahmad welcomed guests and expressed appreciation of their national spirit.

He also expressed gratitude to the Maldivian people for their kind and cordial sentiments on Pakistan Independence Day.

He highlighted the importance of independence, and of the homeland.

He also expressed appreciation for the services of Pakistanis in the Maldives.

Monday’s ceremony also saw the inauguration of a ‘Made in Pakistan’ corner at the High Commission.

The ceremony concluded after a cake was cut in celebration of Pakistan’s Independence Anniversary, recitation of national songs by children.

The ceremony was attended by a good number of Pakistanis and Maldivians.