Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN, hoisted the national flag as the national anthem played.
Consul General Aamer Ahmad Atozai, Deputy Permanent Representative Ambassador Usman Jadoon, officers and staff of the Mission and the Consulate, and their families attended the ceremony.
Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations, called for renewed commitment to Pakistan’s founding ideals, national sovereignty, peace, security and socio-economic development, as Pakistan marked its 80th Independence Day.
He paid tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, describing him as an extraordinary leader, a visionary and a statesman who not only led the struggle for freedom but also guided the creation of an independent nation-state.
““Few individuals significantly alter the course of history. Fewer still modify the map of the world. Hardly anyone can be credited with creating a nation-state. Mohammad Ali Jinnah did all three,” he said while referring to a famous quote of Stanley Wolpert.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s journey since 14 August 1947, the Ambassador highlighted the resilience, courage and achievements of the Pakistani people across diverse fields, which were achieved against the heaviest of the odds.
He paid tribute to Pakistan’s armed forces for their continued perseverance and valour in safeguarding the country and protecting its people, noting the strength demonstrated in defending Pakistan’s borders during the recent confrontation with India in May 2025.
Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad also highlighted the achievements of Pakistanis around the world, including as innovators, athletes, artists and women who continue to bring pride to the country through their contributions. He particularly acknowledged the presence and contributions of Ms. Saima Saleem and Ms. Aleena Majeed, whose work at the Permanent Mission continues to serve as an inspiration.
He stated that Pakistan had overcome significant structural and economic challenges since its independence and continued to demonstrate resilience in the face of adversity. Referring to Pakistan’s mediatory role in the Iran conflict, he said that, amid recent global instability and conflict, Pakistan had remained committed to finding pathways towards peace and stability.
The Ambassador called for a renewed focus on the responsibilities that remain to be fulfilled, stressing that while Pakistanis should take pride in the country’s remarkable journey, they must also prepare for the challenges and opportunities of the next two decades when Pakistan will turn 100.
He also conveyed Pakistan’s strong moral, political and diplomatic support for the people in Jammu and Kashmir, and for the freedom and rights of Palestinian brothers and sisters, reaffirming Pakistan’s longstanding commitment to the rights and aspirations of the peoples of Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine.
He also emphasized the need for continued efforts to combat terrorism and strengthen Pakistan’s economic and developmental progress.
Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad called upon Pakistanis everywhere to uphold a spirit of solidarity and mutual responsibility and to serve as proud representatives of their country.
Addressing the children attending the ceremony, he emphasized that they represented the future of Pakistan and underscored the collective responsibility to create a country that would continue to “shine bright forever.”
Concluding his remarks, the Permanent Representative extended his warmest wishes to all Pakistanis on the 79th Independence Day and called for renewed unity, responsibility and commitment to the ideals upon which Pakistan was founded.
Speaking on the occasion, Aamer Ahmad Atozai, Consul General of Pakistan in New York, paid rich tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the leaders and workers of the Pakistan Movement, and all those whose sacrifices made independence possible.
Emphasizing that freedom is both a legacy and a responsibility, he underscored the enduring relevance of Quaid-e-Azam’s principles of Unity, Faith and Discipline. He highlighted the Pakistani nation’s resilience, unity and determination to safeguard its sovereignty and national interests while remaining committed to peace, dialogue and diplomacy.
He also paid special tribute to the Pakistani-American community for its outstanding contributions to the United States and its continued support for Pakistan through remittances, investment, philanthropy, knowledge and expertise, describing the community as a vital bridge between Pakistan and the United States.
The Consul General called for the Independence Day to serve not only as a celebration but also as a renewal of the collective commitment to building a peaceful, prosperous, inclusive and strong Pakistan where its youth can realize their aspirations and the country can continue to stand with dignity and pride in the comity of nations.
Earlier, Zulifqar Ali, Umar Sheikh and Muhammad Faheem read out the messages of the President, Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan. Counsellor Jawad Ajmal conducted the proceedings of the flag-hoisting ceremony.
The event concluded on a cake-cutting ceremony in which Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, joined by the Consul General Aamer Ahmad Atozai, Deputy Permanent Representative Ambassador Usman Jadoon and children, cut the cake to celebrate the Independence Day of Pakistan.
Pakistan Independence Day Celebrated in Bergen County
A special ceremony to mark the Independence Day of Pakistan was held in Bergen County, New Jersey, bringing together a large number of Pakistani Americans from the county and surrounding areas. Consul General for Pakistan in New York, Mr. Aamer Ahmed Atozai, attended the gathering as Chief Guest.
In his remarks, the Consul General conveyed his warm greetings to the Pakistani American community and underscored the significance of August 14 as a day of national pride, remembrance and renewed commitment to Pakistan’s progress. He acknowledged the important role played by Pakistani Americans in the economic, social and civic life of the United States and appreciated their efforts to preserve Pakistan’s heritage and values.
The event featured patriotic expressions and community participation, highlighting the enduring bond between Pakistani Americans and their homeland and their shared commitment to strengthening Pakistan-US relations.