National Day of Pakistan Celebrated in Turkey

ANKARA: 23 March 2016:   Pakistan Embassy in Ankara commemorated “Pakistan National Day” at an impressive ceremony here today. The Ambassador of Pakistan to Turkey, Mr. Sohail Mahmood, raised the Pakistan flag on the tune of National Anthem in presence of the Pakistani community, Pakistani students studying in Turkish Universities and Embassy officials and their families.  The messages of the President and the Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out on the occasion.

The President of Pakistan, Mr. Mamnoon Hussain, in his message stated that on 23rd of March we pay tributes to the Father of the Nation and other leaders of the Freedom Movement who facilitated the creation of Pakistan by uniting the nation through their earnestness, wisdom and unparalleled sacrifices. Pakistan came into being through a long democratic struggle and now the key to its stability and development lies in democracy.

The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Mr. Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, in his message said that the nation is celebrating the 76^th Anniversary of Pakistan Resolution adopted on 23 March 1940 under the inspiring leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. The dream was achieved in the form of Pakistan as an independent country. The struggle was for a state where the principles of social justice and equality could prevail to ensure peace, tolerance and prosperity in accordance with the religious beliefs and cultural values of its citizens. “Today, we stand determined to preserve and protect this country for our future generations.” The Prime Minister resolved to face all challenges and reiterated the commitment to ensure freedom, equality and social justice for every citizen of Pakistan as enshrined in the teachings of Islam.

Ambassador Sohail Mahmood in his remarks recalled the valiant struggle for Pakistan under the inspiring leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Briefing the guests about recent developments in Pakistan-Turkey relations, he highlighted the steps being taken to promote bilateral trade and investment. He informed that Pakistan and Turkey had signed the “Framework Agreement” for a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) at Islamabad on 22 March 2016 during the visit of Turkish Minister for Economy Mr. Mustafa ELİTAŞ. Once concluded, the FTA would usher in a new era of enhanced commercial ties, he added.

Students of Pakistan Embassy School (PEISG) in Ankara presented national songs. Later, the Ambassador awarded prizes to the winners of a paintings competition on “Colours of Pakistan” organized by PEISG.

A reception will be hosted this evening where the Turkish leadership, parliamentarians, civil society, media and members of Pakistan community are invited to participate. A Pakistan Food Cuisine event shall also commence simultaneously and continue for the rest of the week.