Pakistani community celebrates 74th national day in Colombo

The High Commission of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the Pakistani community based in Sri Lanka on Saturday celebrated the 74th National Day of Pakistan with traditional fervour and resolved to make Pakistan a strong, vibrant, progressive and democratic Islamic welfare state.

The National Day of Pakistan is celebrated every year on 23 March to commemorate the most outstanding achievement of the Muslims of South Asia who passed the historic ‘Pakistan Resolution’ on this day at Lahore in 1940 which culminated in creation of Pakistan after seven years.

The High Commissioner of Pakistan in Sri Lanka, Maj Gen (R) Qasim Qureshi hoisted the national flag of Pakistan in an impressive ceremony held at the Pakistan High Commission here this morning to mark the occasion. Later, the messages of the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out to the participants.

The High Commissioner of Pakistan Qasim Qureshi in his message on the occasion said that Pakistan and Sri Lanka continue to maintain their traditionally close and mutually beneficial relations which are based on mutual respect and trust. He said that the strength of Pak-Sri Lanka relationship lies in diversified engagement in many fields such as trade, defence, science, culture and education.

The High Commissioner further said that the democratically elected parliament and government of Pakistan have for the first time, successfully completed their five year tenure. “We look forward to a free and fair election and a smooth transfer of power to the chosen representatives of our people,” he added.

He expressed his believe that consolidation of democratic institutions will result in stability and good governance in Pakistan.

The High Commissioner hoped that the efforts being made by the Government of Sri Lanka in the resettlement and rehabilitation of people affected by war will be soon completed, enabling Sri Lanka to preserve its hard earned religious and ethnic harmony.

Qasim Qureshi also extended sincere greetings and best wishes on behalf of the government and people of Pakistan to the Government and people of Sri Lanka and the international community. The ceremony was attended by a large number of participants from various walks of life including members of the Sri Lanka Pakistan Friendship Association, prominent Sri Lankan personalities and the Pakistani community based in Sri Lanka.