Freedom struggle continues to inspire hope, says ambassador

Special Correspondent

NEW YORK: Pakistan’s Permanent Representative-designate to the UN Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad has said that the spirit of sacrifice and unity shown by the nation during Pakistan’s freedom struggle continues to inspire hope as the nation navigates various challenges.

Speaking at a flag-hoisting ceremony at the chancery building, Ambassador Asim said Pakistan Day is an occasion to reflect on the sacrifices and contributions of the country’s founding fathers.

He said if we embrace the lessons and values of our founding fathers in both our individual and collective lives, there is no reason we cannot place Pakistan firmly on the path to sustained progress and prosperity.

The ambassador highlighted how Pakistan’s founding fathers adopted a multidimensional approach during the freedom movement, mobilizing people from all walks of life, including women, students, and the youth.

Quaid-i-Azam, he said, led a constitutional, political, and democratic struggle for Pakistan, and with the unwavering support of the people, overcame all obstacles in his path, he told the ceremony.

Reflecting on Pakistan’s journey over the past 78 years, Ambassador Asim acknowledged the many ups and downs the nation has faced but emphasized that Pakistan has also achieved significant milestones in various fields, which should be a source of pride for the nation.

He paid special tribute to Pakistan’s armed forces and law enforcement agencies for their sacrifices, which they continue to make daily in the line of duty.

“We will defeat this resurgence of terrorism with the power of national unity,” he asserted.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s desire for peaceful and friendly relations with its neighbors. However, he underscored that the grave human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) cannot be ignored. He stressed that it is Pakistan’s moral, political, and diplomatic responsibility to support the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination and vowed to continue advocating for their inalienable rights.

“Our support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination also remains absolute,” he added, recalling that the Lahore Resolution of 1940 had also expressed strong solidarity with Palestinians.

Flag-hoisting in Washington 

A flag hoisting ceremony was held at the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington.

Pakistan’s Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh hoisted the national flag to the tune of the national anthem in background, with the participation of all officers and staff of the Embassy.

Special messages from President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar were read out. 

Additionally, Ambassador Sheikh issued a special message highlighting the significance of the day.

Pakistan Day celebrated in New Delhi.

Pakistan Day was also celebrated at Pakistan’s high commission in New Delhi, India.

Speaking at a Flag-hoisting function, Saad Ahmad Warraich, Pakistan’s charge d’ affairs, said Pakistan believes in the principles of peaceful co-existence and collective welfare. He said the renewal of the Kartarpur Corridor agreement with India was a reaffirmation of Pakistan’s commitment to the process of dialogue and negotiation, adding a constructive approach is essential for regional peace and security.

The Pakistani envoy said that the path of stubbornness and obstinacy cannot be the harbinger of a bright future for the region, adding that the resolution of the occupied Jammu and Kashmir dispute is necessary in accordance with the UN resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.