on the occasion of the 78 th Independence Day of Pakistan
On the eve of 78 th 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 guide 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.