Pakistan’s 71st Independence Day celebrated in Brussels

BRUSSELS: To mark Pakistan’s 71st Independence Day, Pakistani community in Belgium and Luxembourg participated in large numbers at the flag hoisting ceremony at the Embassy of Pakistan Brussels and celebrated the day with full fervour.

Pakistan's Ambassador to the European Union, Belgium and Luxembourg Mrs Naghmana A. Hashmi raised the flag while national anthem played in the background.

In her address, Ambassador Hashmi paid tribute to the leadership of Quaid-I-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah for his struggle for the Muslims of the sub-continent. While referring to the huge sacrifices made by the Muslims for their independence and also those of civilians and armed forces of Pakistan, Ambassador Hashmi called upon young people to build up their nation through hard work and unity.

Ambassador Hashmi reminded the participants of the vision of Quaid-e-Azam that envisaged respect for all the religions and ethnicities in Pakistan. The spirit of unity irrespective of cast and creed is the greatest need of the hour, she stated.

The messages of President of Pakistan and Prime Minister were read out by Deputy Head of Mission Mr Asif Memon and Minister Economic Mr Omar Hameed, respectively. Poetess Dr Nikhat Iftikhar, who had specially flown from the UK, rendered poetry recitation on Pakistan and Kashmir. Meanwhile, Farah Khan and a group of students from Ghent (led by Saba Kazmi) presented national songs.

Community members from different cities of Belgium including Brussels, Ghent, Liege and Leuven as well as Luxembourg participated in the event with full fervour.

Children dressed up in green and white presented national songs. Certificates and prizes were distributed among the participants of national songs and quiz competition.