DNA PARIS, AUG 14: The WSF Mens’ World Junior Individual Squash Championship is in progress at Nancy (France). In the 4th round of Individual event on 13 Aug, 22 Brice Nicolas from France bt Noor Zaman from Pakistan 11-5, 11-8, 9-11, 11-4.
The Quarter Finals were played today (14 Aug, 22). In one of the quarter finals, Muhammad Hamza Khan from Pakistan bt Mohammed Nasser from Egypt by 11-3, 5-11, 9-11, 11-5, 11-7 and has reached the Semi Finals. Hamza Khan will play against Finnlay Withington from England in the Semi Finals on 15 August, 2022.
The Senior Vice President, Pakistan Squash Federation Air Marshal Aamir Masood also visited the city Nancy, France on 12 August, 2022 and met with Mr William Louis Marie, CEO World Squash Federation and Mr Juilan Muller, the President of French Squash Federation. During his meetings, apart from detailed discussion on the progression of squash in Pakistan, Air Marshal Aamir Masood also conveyed a message to the world squash bodies that Pakistan is one of safest countries for all sports in general and the game of squash in particular. He further highlighted that with the concerted efforts of Pakistan Squash Federation, the country would regain its past glory in the game of squash very soon. CEO, WSF and President French Squash Federation also assured that as in the past, they would continue their all out support to Pakistan Squash Federation for the development of the game in the future, as well.
ANKARA, AUG 14 /DNA/ – The 75th Independence Day of Pakistan was celebrated today in Ankara with traditional zeal and fervor. Ambassador of Pakistan to Turkiye, Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi, hoisted the national flag to the tune of national anthem in the presence of the Turkish dignitaries, Pakistani community and media.
Messages of the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out on the occasion. Pakistani leadership in their messages paid tribute to the sacrifices of ancestors and vowed to transform Pakistan in accordance with the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Muhammad Iqbal. Pakistani leadership also expressed solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir who are facing military siege since past three years and reassured Pakistan’s political, moral and diplomatic support for their legitimate right to self-determination.
Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador SyrusQazifelicitated the nation particularly Pakistani community in Turkiye on the 75th anniversary of the independence. Ambassador Qazi stated that fourteenth August reminds us of the epic democratic struggle of our ancestors for securing a separate homeland for the Muslims of the Sub-Continent where they could live their lives according to their own will. It is a day to reiterate the firm resolve to uphold our national values of unity, faith and discipline as envisioned by our Quaid and renew our commitment to the objectives of the creation of Pakistan.
The ambassador also thanked the Turkish leadership and people for sending congratulatory messages and participating in the Pakistan Independence Day celebrations.
On the eve of Pakistan Independence Day, Ankara’s landmark, ‘Atakule’, the tallest tower and best lit building, will be showcasing messages of Pakistan-Turkey brotherhood and solidarity. Atakule is situated on Jinnah Avenue just opposite to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s monument. Moreover, bridges in Istanbul on the Bosporus linking Asia with Europe will be illuminated in Pakistan’s flag colours this evening.
ISLAMABAD, AUG 14: The Government and people of Pakistan extend heartfelt condolences over the loss of precious lives as well as injuries to many, as a result of a tragic fire incident in Abo Sefein Church in Giza Governorate of Egypt.
We express deepest sympathies for the families of the deceased and pray for the speediest recovery of those injured.
Pakistan stands in solidarity with the brotherly people and Government of Egypt in this moment of grief.
Brussels, AUG 14: The Independence Day of Pakistan was observed with patriotic zeal and spirit in a graceful ceremony at the Embassy of Pakistan, Brussels today.
The national flag of the country was hoisted by Pakistan’s Ambassador to the European Union, Belgium and Luxembourg, Dr. Asad Majeed Khan at the Chancery building.
The special messages of the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out on the occasion. The Pakistani leadership in their separate messages paid glowing tributes to the sacrifices of Pakistan’s founding forefathers. They reaffirmed their commitment to make tireless efforts to realize the vision of the founding fathers.
In his message on the occasion, Ambassador Khan stressed the importance of the vision of Quaid-e-Azam, Mohammad Ali Jinnah and poet-philosopher, Allama Muhammad Iqbal, who envisaged Pakistan to be a progressive, moderate and democratic country.
Underscoring the importance of the role of Overseas Pakistanis, the Ambassador urged the Pakistani community living in Belgium and Luxembourg to make a firm resolve to undertake all possible efforts for the development and prosperity of the country.
On the Occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Independence, Ambassador Khan also unveiled the special commemorative postage stamp issued by the Belgium Post (B Post). The stamp bears the special logo of 75th diamond jubilee of Pakistan alongwith the flags of the two countries. The stamp also contains inscription “75th Independence Day of Pakistan” in English, French and Flemish languages. The stamp is issued in three categories with regular, priority and International delivery options.
As part of these celebrations, a photo exhibition was also arranged to introduce Pakistan’s tourism and cultural potential. A fancy dress show of children wearing traditional Pakistani dresses was also organized to mark the diamond Jubilee of Independence, which was highly appreciated by the participants.
A wide segment of the Pakistani community living in Belgium and Luxembourg including women and children participated in the celebrations.
Hamad Obaid Al Zaabi Ambassador of the UAE to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan shares his thoughts on the time-tested bonds between the two nations
How do you view UAE-Pakistan ties?
Based on deep-rooted historical and cultural ties, the UAE and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan enjoy a unique friendship that has withstood the test of time. Over the years, our cooperation has expanded to encompass all key fields. In the economic field in particular, our two countries have strengthened bilateral coordination in recent years. The UAE has played a vital role in supporting the economic and financial stability of Pakistan through assistance in critical times. In 2019, the UAE deposited $2 billion in the State Bank of Pakistan to support the country’s financial and monetary policy and enhance liquidity and foreign reserves.
Both countries announced a strategic economic partnership by establishing an Investment Fund with $1 billion to invest in vital sectors in Pakistan. In the political and diplomatic fields, the UAE has also worked to bolster global security and stability alongside its international partners, including Pakistan.
What are some of the activities undertaken by the Embassy to strengthen people-to-people ties within Pakistan?
Since my appointment as Head of Mission in 2017, I have strived to strengthen bilateral relations on the political, economic, and social levels.
This has come against the backdrop of the ex¬change of visits by our countries’ leadership at the highest levels. The UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, have visited Pakistan. Pakistani leadership, including Shahbaz Sharif, Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, visited the UAE in April 2022. Our two countries are important partners in the region and believe these visits contribute to further bolstering our relations.
The UAE Embassy, in cooperation with the UAE charity and humanitarian organisations, has worked to implement humanitarian programmes and social welfare projects. For example, the UAE Pakistan Assistance Programme (UAE-PAP) was launched to provide humanitarian assistance to the people of Pakistan and support their development initiatives for a better future. Its mission is to execute development aid projects that offer sustainability and continuous benefits to the Pakistani people over the long run. To date, the UAE-PAP has successfully completed 165 projects related to economic, human, and social development in the health, education, water, and infrastructure sectors. Some examples of this successful cooperation include:
As of 2021, more than 30,000 Pakistani students have enrolled in schools built by the UAE Pakistan Assistance Programme with an estimated investment value of $200 million.
This programme is also playing a vital role in eradicating polio in Pakistan in coordination with the WHO and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.
The Emirates Polio Campaign has provided more than 86 million vaccines to Pakistani children.
Many other humanitarian organisations, such as the Khalifa bin Zayed Humanitarian Foundation, Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Charitable and Humanitarian Establishment, and the UAE Red Crescent, provide assistance in several areas of Pakistan
The UAE supported Pakistan’s efforts to contain the Covid-19 pandemic by supplying medical aid and vaccines.
The UAE Embassy has initiated various cultural programmes such as marathons, art exhibitions, Covid-19 awareness drives, and seminars.
Has there been an increase in interest in tourism to Pakistan?
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic on the global tourism sector, Pakistan’s cultural diversity and landscape have attracted many Emiratis. Notably, Emirati mountaineer Saeed Khamis Al- Memari successfully summitted K2, the highest peak in Pakistan, thereby becoming the first Arab to reach this unprecedented achievement. We are confident that the adventure tourism sector in Pakistan will continue to attract travellers seeking to explore the country’s numerous offerings.
In the aftermath of the successfully concluded Expo 2020 Dubai, how has the response from UAE businesses been towards operating in Pakistan?
The response has been very constructive, as many investment and trade deals were inked during Expo 2020 Dubai. Many companies are now in the process of entering the Pakistani market to expand economic cooperation in projects covering various sectors.
What are some of the sectors of interest that could generate business links?
The UAE is Pakistan’s largest trading partner in the Middle East with $8 billion in trade in 2021. The country is also a major source of investments and remittances. The UAE is planning to invest $1 billion in Pakistan’s gas, renewable energy, infrastructure, healthcare, biotechnology, agriculture, logistics, digital communications, e-commerce, and financial services. This is in addition to existing UAE investments in the fields of banking, telecommunications, agriculture, and property development.
What is your message for 75 years of independence for Pakistan?
First, I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to the government and people of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on its 75th anniversary of independence. I am pleased to share in this celebration, as our two countries are also commemorating the Golden Jubilee of our relations.
I believe that my second home of Pakistan, with its rich cultural history, geographic diversity, and significant economic potential, will continue its journey towards peace and development. I am also confident that under the leadership of both countries, the bilateral relations will continue to flourish and grow to new horizons.
ISLAMABAD: Directorate General of Special Education (DGSE), Ministry of Human Rights organized an event to celebrate Pakistan’s 75th Independence Day with fervor and enthusiasm.
The program commenced with recitation from the Holly Quran, Naat e Rasool e Maqbool (S.W) and playing of the National Anthem.
The Chief Guest, Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada, Minister for Human Rights while addressing the audience highlighted the significance of the day. He apprised about Pakistan’s regional and global importance by virtue of its history, geo strategic location, rich human and natural resources. He dilated that Government of Pakistan is aware of the challenges our homeland is confronting and it has adopted a comprehensive plan of economic and structural reforms for its sustainable development. He further highlighted the hard work, dedication, struggles, and endeavors of our forefathers in the great cause of Independence. He also said that the efforts of Quaid e Azam, the struggles of Allama Iqbal, the preaching of Sir Syed, and the efforts of thousands of Muslim freedom fighters from all spheres of life could never ever be forgotten.
The Minister and Secretary, Ministry of Human Rights also distributed assistive devices among the persons with disabilities from Islamabad Capital Territory(ICT) and students of special education centres under Directorate General of Special Education. The Secretary assured that all possible means would be utilized for uplift and welfare of persons with disabilities.
Then special students from different centres of Directorate General of Special Education gave their impressive performances on Milli Naghmas.
Mr. Azhar Sajjad, Director General(Special Education) delineated the services of Directorate General of Special Education in his welcome address. He told that the educational, rehabilitation and training services for persons with disabilities are being expanded to the entire ICT level and Inclusive Education program has been started for the purpose. He further pointed that DGSE has launched a mobile application for awareness, education, rehabilitation and training of PWDs. This application is friendly and easy to use that enables aspirant students to seek information and admissions conveniently at their homes. He further added that E-technology project for visually impaired persons has also been started. He ended with the prayer for the prosperity, safety and success of Pakistan. He urged that being a Pakistani, we must celebrate Independence by thanking to Almighty Allah for endowment of this motherland after sacrifices of our forefathers.
CAIRO, AUG 14 /DNA/ – Ambassador Sajid Bilal hoisted Pakistan flag at the Embassy of Pakistan in Cairo to mark the 75th Anniversary of Independence, today. After the flag hoisting, the ceremony commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran, and reading out of messages of the President and the Prime Minister for the audience.
Earlier, on the eve of Independence Day, the Embassy arranged a festive reception attended by Pakistani families in large numbers, including from cities of Isamilia and Alexandria.
The event commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran and prayers for peace, stability and prosperity of the country and its people. The recitation was followed by playing of national anthem; the audience joined to sing the anthem with great zeal and fervor. On the occasion, the students of Pakistan International School presented a number of performances on national songs. The Ambassador was invited on stage to award certificates to the winners of Quiz and Art and Painting competitions arranged by the School as part of the Independence Day celebrations.
In his remarks, Ambassador Sajid Bilal paid tribute to the wisdom and foresight of the founding fathers of Pakistan for demanding a separate homeland for the Muslims of the Subcontinent. He also lauded the security personnel across Pakistan for providing the people safety and security from all kind of threats; and reminded that while we celebrate our freedoms, we should not forget to remember our Kashmiri brothers and sisters who are still striving to win freedom from illegal Indian occupation.
The Ambassador thanked the Pakistani community in Egypt for their valuable contributions to the progress and prosperity of Pakistan through their active participation in Roshan Digital Account initiative and urged them to continue their active participation in the initiative.
Towards the end, community notables and the Embassy team joined the Ambassador to cut the Independence Day cake, amid the slogans of “Pakistan Zindabad”.
The event was attended by more than 250 Pakistanis from across Egypt.
Jakarta, AUG 14 /DNA/ – The Embassy of Pakistan in Jakarta celebrated the 75thanniversary of the Independence Day of Pakistan on 14 August 2022 with traditional fervor in a simple but dignified ceremony which was attended by a large number of Pakistani Diaspora along with their families, friends from Indonesia and electronic and print media representatives.
The event commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag by H.E. Ambassador Muhammad Hassan followed by reading out the messages of the President and the Prime Minister of Pakistan, received on the occasion.
H.E. Ambassador Muhammad Hassan, in his remarks, paid homage to the founding fathers and highlighted the achievements and progress of Pakistan in the past years. The ambassador expressed resolve of the government and the people to make Pakistan economically stronger and more prosperous and to continue to make our society humane, inclusive, and tolerant. He also reaffirmed the pledge to uphold democratic values, rule of law, and the Islamic way of life in Pakistan as envisioned by the founding fathers.
The Ambassador expressed unshakable support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and the resolve of the government and people of Pakistan to continue moral, political, and diplomatic support for their legitimate right of self-determination.
With regard to Pakistan-Indonesia relations, the Ambassador highlighted various aspects of the multifaceted relations between the two countrieswhich were based upon strong historical bonds andexpressed satisfaction over expanding bilateral relations. He also stressed the need to explore new vistas of bilateral cooperation and mentioned that Pakistan was keen to deepen economic engagement and trade relations with Indonesia to harness its full potentials.
The Ambassador acknowledged the contribution of the Pakistani community in Indonesia for strengthening the ties between the two countries. He appreciated the members of the community for not only contributing to the economic development of the motherland and the host country but also playing their role in projecting the true image of Pakistan and highlighting our rich and diverse culture to the Indonesian people.
In the end, refreshments were served to the guests.
PARIS, AUG 14 /DNA/ – A flag hoisting ceremony was held at Pakistan Embassy, Paris to celebrate the Independence Day of Pakistan here this morning. Charge d’Affaires Mr. Muhammad Amjad Aziz Qazi raised the Pakistani flag to the tune of the national anthem in the presence of members of the Pakistani community, Embassy officials and their families. Messages of President of Pakistan, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister were read out on the occasion.
In his remarks Charge d’Affaires congratulated the members of the Pakistani community on the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of Pakistan and said that despite the challenges, Pakistan is developing as a modern democratic state with a vibrant civil society. Pakistan, he said, is making strides in all spheres of life including industry, science and technology as well as in the fields of art and culture. Mr. Qazi mentioned that Pakistan is proud to be the seventh nuclear power capable of defending itself through its world’s best armed forces. In addition to making progress in the fields of agriculture, infrastructure development and textiles, Pakistan has also shown its great strength in the realm of sports. Women of Pakistan are being empowered to strengthen their role in all important fields, he added. Mr. Qazi regarded overseas Pakistanis as an asset for the country and lauded the positive role played by the Pakistani community in France in all realms of the society. The event included a drawing competition among Pakistani children as well as a cultural program in which Pakistan’s national songs were sung and guests were treated with traditional Pakistani food. The chancery building was decorated with pictures from Pakistan. On the occasion, the Embassy also arranged an exhibition of the original artwork of a Pakistani artist, Ms. Xandria Noir. While inaugurating the exhibition Charge d’Affaires appreciated the uniqueness of her work and said that Pakistani artists have always found appreciation from within the country and abroad. A cake was cut in connection with the diamond jubilee celebrations and prayers were made for Pakistan’s prosperity.
BEIJING – China on Sunday congratulated Pakistan on its diamond jubilee, 75th anniversary of Independence Day and wished Pakistan for every success and its road to peace and prosperity.
Happy Birthday Pakistan, May I wish Pakistan every success and its road to peace and prosperity, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian tweeted here on China government official account.
China’s Ambassador to Pakistan Nong Rong also tweeted “Pakistan 75th Youm-e-Azadi Mubarak, China Pak Dosti Zindabad”.
