Pakistan National Day marked with fervour

Members of the Pakistani expatriate community in Qatar celebrated their country’s National Day with much enthusiasm and national zeal yesterday.
On the occasion, a large number of Pakistanis from all walks of life gathered at the Pakistan embassy in Doha to attend the flag-hoisting ceremony.
Pakistan’s ambassador to Qatar Syed Ahsan Raza Shah hoisted the national flag at the ceremony. A smartly-turned-out military contingent from Pakistan gave salute to the national flag while the national anthem was played.
The ambassador, along with other embassy officials and community leaders, also cut a cake to mark the special day.
Messages from Pakistan’s President Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan were read out on the occasion.
The message from the president noted, “March 23 marks the historic day when Muslims of the sub-continent decided to unite in their democratic demand for a separate homeland. Today, therefore, is an occasion to pay tribute to the struggle and sacrifices of our founding fathers and pledge once more to live up to the ideals that form the foundation of the idea of Pakistan.”
The message from Prime Minister Khan stated: “The resolution passed on March 23 was aimed at creation of a state where the citizens could enjoy equal opportunities irrespective of caste and creed and where they could play their due role in the progress of the country.
“The Pakistan of today is a New Pakistan. We are endeavouring to make the country a true Islamic welfare state. We are committed to establishing a society which is based on compassion and justice and where every person can contribute towards socioeconomic development to the best of his ability.”
Addressing the gathering, ambassador Shah said: “It is the day when we reiterate our loyalty to our country. I am happy to welcome you all to the embassy. The oversees Pakistanis have very diligently been fulfilling their duties towards their country. The Pakistanis living in Qatar have been playing an exemplary role in further cementing ties with Qatar. I believe that the bilateral ties will further flourish in the near future.
“I appreciate your role and expect you to continue playing your positive role in development and progress of Qatar. I also expect you to abide by the laws in Qatar. I believe if you remain united, you will flourish together.
“Pakistan and Qatar have strong ties as two Muslim countries. They have strong religious, historic and cultural bonds. The recent visit by Prime Minister Imran Khan to Qatar is a proof of our bilateral ties. Now, the people and Government of Pakistan are looking for a visit by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani.”
The ambassador said: “In future, there will be more warmth and strength in the bilateral ties that will became exemplary. I am very pleased to say that the Government of Qatar is well aware of the role played by expatriate Pakistanis in the development of the country. I urge you to further improve your relations and co-ordination with the locals. Every expatriate Pakistani is an ambassador of his or her country.”