Pakistan celebrates 76th Independence Day

The High Commission of Pakistan and the Pakistani community in Sri Lanka celebrated the 76th Independence Day of Pakistan today. 

The ceremony was held with traditional fervor and resolve to make Pakistan a strong, dynamic progressive, tolerant and democratic Islamic welfare state, the High Commission said. 

The High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in Sri Lanka, Maj. Gen (Retd) Umar Farooq Burki HI (M) hoisted the national flag of Pakistan at the Pakistan High Commission in Colombo. Special messages of the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out to the audience. 

Addressing the gathering, High Commissioner Burki expressed his gratitude to Sri Lanka for providing them the opportunity to celebrate their independence on Sri Lankan soil. The bond between Pakistan and Sri Lanka runs deep in history, with shared values, and unwavering support for one another, he added. "We are truly blessed to have such a steadfast friend in our journey towards progress and development," said the High Commissioner. 

Those present at the ceremony included members of the Pakistani diaspora, officials and families of High Commission staff and ocal dignitaries. 

Pix by Indika Handuwala