KATHMANDU: The Embassy of Pakistan in Kathmandu commemorated the 86th National Day of Pakistan with a flag hoisting ceremony held at the chancery premises on Sunday.
Ambassador Abrar H Hashmi hoisted the national flag, while messages from Pakistan’s leadership—including President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar—were read out during the event.
In his message, President Zardari emphasized that Pakistan Day serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and solidarity in achieving national goals. He called for strengthening democratic institutions, ensuring the rule of law, reducing inequality, empowering women, and eliminating terrorism and extremism.
Prime Minister Sharif highlighted March 23 as a historic milestone in South Asia, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to global peace. He stressed that lasting peace in the region is linked to a just resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue. He also expressed solidarity with the people of Palestine and concern over ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar paid tribute to the sacrifices of Pakistan’s founding generation and reiterated the country’s continued support—political, moral, and diplomatic—for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He also noted that regional tensions have impacted Pakistan’s economy and politics, prompting austerity measures by the government.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Hashmi congratulated the Pakistani community in Nepal and appreciated their contributions toward strengthening bilateral ties. He also recalled the historic significance of March 23, 1940, and paid homage to Muhammad Ali Jinnah for his leadership in the creation of Pakistan.
The Ambassador expressed solidarity with victims of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and announced that the Pakistan National Day reception would not be held this year in line with the Prime Minister’s directives. #nepal
