Pakistan marks 79th Independence Day with flag hoisting and cultural performances in Hulhumale'

Pakistan celebrated its 79th Independence Day on Saturday with a flag-hoisting ceremony held at the Pakistan High Commission in Hulhumale'.

The ceremony was attended by members of the Pakistani community, Maldivian citizens, and ambassadors from several countries. Heads of diplomatic missions from Australia, China, Japan, Russia, the United States and the United Kingdom also graced the event, described as a rare gesture of solidarity and partnership with Pakistan.

High Commissioner Vice Admiral Faisal Rasul Lodhi hoisted Pakistan’s national flag as the National Anthem was played. The ceremony began with the recitation of the Holy Quran and prayers.

UNDP representative and prominent Pakistani citizen Mr Adnan spoke at the event, noting that Pakistanis are blessed with qualities of resilience, hard work, sacrifice and warm hospitality. He said 14 August serves as a reminder of the courage and unity shown by Pakistan’s founding fathers.

The High Commissioner conveyed special messages from Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar. He paid tribute to the vision of Dr Allama Iqbal and the leadership of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, whose efforts led to Pakistan’s independence.

He highlighted that Pakistan’s eight-decade journey has been marked by challenges as well as notable achievements, including progress in science, technology, IT exports, diversified economic sectors and defence. He also noted Pakistan’s strengthened global partnerships and referenced the country’s comprehensive victory in Operation Bunyan-Al-Marsoos, which enhanced Pakistan’s international standing.

The High Commissioner reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering diplomatic, moral and political support to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, and said Pakistan remains committed to multilateral cooperation and continues to play an active role in mediating regional conflicts.

A cultural programme by Pakistani children was also held to mark the occasion. They performed national songs, poems and speeches reflecting their pride in Pakistan’s legacy and hopes for the country’s future.

Pakistan gained independence on 14 August 1947. Pakistan and Maldives established bilateral relations on 26 July 1966, a year after Maldives gained independence from the British.