March 21, 2018

PAKISTAN NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATIONS 2018

The United Arab Emirates is home away from home for expatriates from various different countries around the world.

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You can find people of any and every nationality you can think of here in the UAE. Such is the diversity and beauty of this country. Apart from providing a homely atmosphere for everyone who lives here, the Emirates celebrates everyone’s religious rituals and cultural/ national traditions.  Christian celebrations such as Easter and Christmas, Hindu traditions such as Holi and Diwali, and of course, Islamic festivities such as Ramadan, Eid-ul-Fitr, and Eid-ul-Adha; and the national day celebrations such as those of Pakistan, India, Brazil, Kuwait, Morocco, Spain, Italy and Ireland are some of the events amongst the long list of festivities.

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These events not only provide people with an unforgettable form of entertainment, but it also makes them feel welcomed and comfortable in the UAE.

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For Pakistanis, the national day celebrations fall on the 23rd of March, the ‘Pakistan Day’ and 14th August the ‘Independence Day’.   Every year, Pakistanis around the world celebrate ‘Pakistan Day’ to commemorate the adoption of the Pakistan Resolution, by the All India Muslim League, originally known as the ‘Lahore Resolution.’  The declaration was a major milestone for the struggle of an independent nation state for the Muslims. With huge historic importance, it was the first forum where Muslims of the Indian subcontinent formally demanded a separate homeland for themselves.

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Traditionally, ‘Pakistan Day’ is celebrated with national songs, green flags, and patriotic slogans. In the UAE, the celebrations are a bit different, but celebrations nonetheless.

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On March 21st this year, the Pakistan embassy hosted an official diplomatic reception in Abu Dhabi. It was held at the Intercontinental Hotel and a vast number of dignitaries attended.

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The UAE Minister of Tolerance Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan was the chief guest. The ceremony was also attended by Dr. Maitha bint Salem Al Shamsi, Minister of State, Mohammed Ali Omran Al Shamsi, Director of Diplomats Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, among many other officials and heads of Arab and foreign diplomatic missions.

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With a wide variety of scrumptious foods from Pakistan, a live musical performance of classical Pakistani songs, a special exhibition as part of the ‘Year of Zayed’ initiative showcasing the rare photos of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan; the event exceeded expectations of the ‘Pakistan Day’ festivity.

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The Pakistani Ambassador to the UAE, Moazzam Ahmed Khan, spoke on the occasion to the guests. He said: “Pakistan has been at the forefront in the fight against terrorism. Our valiant armed forces with the undaunted support of its people, have wiped out the forces of evil from our soil.”

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The ambassador spoke highly of the relations between the UAE and Pakistan. He paid a special tribute to the late founder of the UAE, H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (may Allah bless his soul) who used to call Pakistan his second home. “Sheikh Zayed was a great friend and benefactor of Pakistan. His love and affinity for Pakistanis, his benevolence and kindness are now the stuff of legends. Till this day, he rules our hearts and minds.” He added, “Pakistan is very much a part of his legacy, as he is part of ours”.

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“Today, we not only pay tribute to our founding fathers, but also recognise our friends who have always been a source of strength and support for us. I count the UAE among the foremost of Pakistan’s friends and partners. Right from its inception in 1971, the UAE has stood by Pakistan in good times and bad,” he added.

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The Pakistan embassy in Abu Dhabi deserves appreciation for organising Pakistan’s 78th National Day with great enthusiasm and spirit. The auspicious day reminded the Pakistani community of the arduous journey towards freedom and the ideals of our founding fathers. The presence of a significant number of Emirati dignitaries was a clear manifestation of Pakistan’s close relationship with the UAE , which is a result of H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan’s (may Allah bless his soul) love for the Pakistani nation. It is, undoubtedly, a part of his everlasting legacy. May the relationship between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates grow into an unbreakable bond over the years to come. 

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Take a look at the pictures of the event below!