Pakistan Celebrates 77th Independence Day in New York

Wednesday the 77th Independence Day of Pakistan was celebrated at the Pakistan House here in New York. A simple but unique ceremony was held with Ambassador Munir Akram raising the Pakistani flag, organized by the Pakistan team at the United Nations and the Pakistani office in New York.

Reminiscences of Pakistan Founder

Ambassador Akram spoke of Quaid-i-Azam Mohammed Ali Jinnah, who helped form Pakistan. He spoke of the great leader, Jinnah, who let the dream of Pakistan take concrete shape. Akram said that on August 14, 1947, Pakistan was born, and the purpose was to provide South Asian Muslims with a place to call home.

Kashmir: The Flashpoint

He spoke of the relevance of Kashmir to Pakistan. He said that ‘K’ in the name of Pakistan represents Kashmir. He believes that the independence of Pakistan will not be complete until the people of Kashmir can decide their fate on their own.

Plans for Pakistan’s Future

He gave four broad suggestions for the growth and development of Pakistan:

1. To follow Jinnah’s motto, “Unity, Faith, and Discipline“

2. Trying to improve Pakistan’s economy

3. Making Pakistan’s army stronger

4. Continuing good work in international relations

Consul General’s Message

Another speaker was Aamer Ahmad Atozai, Pakistan’s representative in New York. He told that the people of Pakistan who are presently living in other countries are, in fact important ambassadors. These people help in highlighting the positive aspects of Pakistan before the world.

Messages from Pakistan’s Leaders

Some messages from the President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari, and the Prime Minister, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, were read by the organizers. Both leaders said they stand with the people of Kashmir and Palestine in their struggle for independence.

Ending the Celebration

Finally, the ceremony was closed by cutting a cake by all. They also prayed for Pakistan to have peace and success in the future.