ANKARA: The spirit of Pakistan’s 76th Independence Day resonated with traditional fervor and enthusiasm at the Pakistan Embassy in Ankara, uniting the vibrant diaspora in a celebration that paid homage to ancestral sacrifices and renewed commitment to the nation’s vision.
Dr. Yousaf Junaid, Ambassador of Pakistan to Turkiye, led the commemoration by unfurling the national flag to the strains of the national anthem, in the presence of esteemed dignitaries representing diverse facets of society. The event garnered significant attendance from the Pakistani community residing in Ankara.
As a mark of unity and respect for Pakistan’s rich heritage, messages from the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan were conveyed to the gathering. The Pakistani leadership, in their messages, hailed the enduring sacrifices of their forebears and pledged to steer Pakistan towards its envisioned future, in alignment with the principles laid out by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Muhammad Iqbal. The leadership also extended unwavering solidarity to the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir, reaffirming Pakistan’s political, moral, and diplomatic support for their rightful pursuit of self-determination.
7️⃣6️⃣th Independence Day anniversary of #Pakistan was celebrated with traditional zeal & enthusiasm, bringing together the vibrant diaspora at Pakistan Residence in Ankara today ‼️
🇵🇰💚 1/n #PakistanAt76 pic.twitter.com/OlGl2bKHlW— Pakistan Embassy Türkiye (@PakinTurkiye) August 14, 2023
Significance of Independence Day Celebrations
Extending warm felicitations to the Pakistani community in Turkiye on this momentous occasion, Ambassador Dr. Yousaf Junaid underscored the significance of August 14th as a day to honor the profound sacrifices of the nation’s forefathers. He expressed the collective commitment to wholeheartedly contribute to Pakistan’s inclusive and sustainable development, in harmony with the visionary principles of Quaid-e-Azam. With a population exceeding 240 million, Pakistanis have illuminated numerous domains, achieving milestones such as Nobel Prizes, conquering summits, pioneering indigenous technologies, advancing defense production, operating the world’s largest ambulance service, and generating high-quality export commodities. Ambassador Junaid lauded the nation’s multifaceted accomplishments.
Praising the pivotal role of the Pakistani diaspora in Turkiye’s progress, Ambassador Junaid emphasized the symbiotic relationship between the two brotherly nations, reiterating that Turkiye’s advancement translates into Pakistan’s advancement and vice versa.
Affirming Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to the legitimate right to self-determination for Kashmiris, Ambassador Junaid urged the international community to take cognizance of the ongoing grave human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK) and to engage in decisive action towards resolving the Kashmir Dispute.
