Jeddah (Saudi Arabia): August 14,2024:
A grand ceremony was held at the Pakistan Consulate in Jeddah to mark Pakistan’s 77th Independence Day. The event was highlighted by the hoisting of the national flag by Consul General Khalid Majid, who was joined by OIC Assistant Secretary General, Ambassador Aftab Ahmad Khokher. The ceremony witnessed a large turnout from the Pakistani community despite the scorching heat, with attendees participating in the flag-raising ceremony while the national anthem was played. Prayers were also offered for the prosperity and development of Pakistan.
The ceremony included a reading of the special messages from the President, Prime Minister, and Foreign Minister of Pakistan, which were shared with the attendees. The event underscored the deep connection the community maintains with their homeland, as they gathered in significant numbers to celebrate this important national day.
The day before the main event, a grand celebration was held at the Benazir Bhutto Hall of the Pakistani School, where the Pakistani community, along with their families, participated enthusiastically. Local artists performed national songs, and the audience waved the national flag with great enthusiasm. The event also featured speeches by school children and community members, emphasizing the significance of Independence Day. The ceremony began with the national anthems of both Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, symbolizing the strong ties between the two nations.
Pakistan’s Independence Day, celebrated on August 14, marks the creation of the country in 1947, following the end of British rule in the Indian subcontinent. Led by Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Muslims of the subcontinent successfully established Pakistan based on the Two-Nation Theory, which aimed to create a separate state where Muslims could live according to their religious and cultural values. This day is commemorated as a symbol of national pride and unity.
In his address, Consul General Khalid Majid emphasized the importance of remembering the historical significance of August 14 and the need to pass on the principles of the Two-Nation Theory to future generations. He highlighted that these values are essential for fostering unity and love among Pakistanis and for contributing to the country’s development.
The ceremony concluded with prayers for Pakistan’s security and prosperity, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony, bringing the event to a joyous close. The celebrations left a lasting impact on the attendees, reinforcing their love and commitment to their homeland.