Pakistan National Day was celebrated in Qatar with national zeal and enthusiasm on Thursday.
A large number of members of the Pakistani community from all walks of life attended the flag-hoisting ceremony held at the embassy of Pakistan, Doha.
Ambassador Muhemmed Aejaz hoisted the national flag. A smartly turned out military contingent from Pakistan saluted the national flag during the rendition of the national anthem.
National Day messages by President Dr Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Mian Mohamed Shehbaz Sharif were read out on the occasion.
Addressing the community on the occasion, Aejaz recalled the "great sacrifices rendered by our forefathers in the struggle to achieve Pakistan". He paid rich tributes to Quaid-e-Azam Mohamed Ali Jinnah, Allama Mohamed Iqbal and other leaders of the independence movement of Pakistan.
The ambassador stressed that this National Day is even more special as it marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Qatar. Pakistan and Qatar share a long history of close and friendly relations, based on mutual respect, trust and understanding.
He highlighted that bilateral relations between Pakistan and Qatar are based on historical bonds of a shared faith, heritage and culture. He also expressed the hope that bilateral relations would be further strengthened in the years ahead.
The ambassador thanked and appreciated the government and people of Qatar, especially His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani for his continued support and the hospitality extended to the Pakistani community and to Pakistan, year after year. He also expressed pride in the contribution of the Pakistani community in the remarkable progress and prosperity of Qatar.
The ceremony concluded with prayers for progress, prosperity and solidarity of Pakistan.
Elsewhere in Doha, the Pakistani flag was projected on two iconic buildings - The Torch Doha and Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Hotel - yesterday evening to mark the occasion.
Glimpses from the Pakistan National Day celebration held at the embassy.
