Pakistanis celebrate Independence Day with resolve, enthusiasm

Expatriate Pakistanis from all walks of life in Doha converged to celebrate the country’s 77th Independence Day on Wednesday. The mercury tested their resolve but didn’t dampen the spirit, and it seemed as if the country’s newfound superstar athlete Arshad Nadeem’s Olympic gold last week had something to do with it. The jubilation across Pakistan at the fetching Games record seemed to have permeated Doha as well as he remained the focus of conversation amongst Pakistani community members gathered for the occasion.Ambassador Muhemmed Aejaz raised the crescent-and-star Pakistan flag on the embassy premises in Doha’s diplomatic area with a vibrant ceremony. The National Anthem resonated through the air as the gathered crowd joined in unison. Messages from the president, prime minister, and deputy prime minister were read out, each echoing the significance of the occasion.In his address, Ambassador Aejaz extended heartfelt congratulations to fellow Pakistanis on the momentous day. He spoke passionately about how the anniversary reignites the nation's spirit, renewing their commitment to the progress and prosperity of Pakistan.Reflecting on the sacrifices made by their forefathers to secure an independent Islamic state, he emphasised the significance of the day in the context of people’s contribution to the country’s future."The day serves as a powerful reminder of the immense sacrifices rendered by our forefathers to achieve a sovereign, independent Islamic state. It inspires all Pakistanis to serve the country with greater dedication in order to carry the national flag, which symbolises nation’s hopes and aspirations even higher,” he said.The ambassador also reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the oppressed Palestinians and their rightful cause. He highlighted the recent resolutions passed by Pakistan’s Senate and National Assembly, underscoring the country's solidarity with their Palestinian brothers and sisters.Turning to the close ties between Pakistan and Qatar, Ambassador Aejaz noted that 2024 had been a year marked by active engagement between the two nations. He commended the Pakistani community in Qatar, praising their deep love of the homeland and enthusiastic contributions to Pakistan’s development.He expressed the confidence that the community, serving as a living bridge between Pakistan and Qatar, would continue to embody the true spirit of Pakistan, guided by the ideals of Father of The Nation Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and National Poet Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal.Ambassador Aejaz expressed his thanks to His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and the leadership of Qatar for the hospitality accorded to the Pakistani community, offering them excellent opportunities for employment and a high quality of life.He reassured the community that the embassy and its staff would persist in serving the Pakistani diaspora with the utmost dedication, working tirelessly for their welfare and betterment.The ceremony concluded with heartfelt prayers for the progress, prosperity, and unity of Pakistan, leaving the attendees with a renewed sense of pride and purpose.In conclusion, the gathering was treated to a delicious traditional Lahori breakfast made up of chickpeas curry, spiced potato stir-fry and halwa poori (sweet semolina pudding with fried bread).