Pakistan marks 79th Independence Day in Colombo

On the 79th Independence Day of Pakistan, the High Commission in Colombo marked the occasion with great national pride and solemnity. The event commenced with the raising of the Pakistani flag by High Commissioner Dr. Nayyar Naseer, followed by the national anthem, and speeches from the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan. Dr. Naseer paid tribute to Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Muhammad Iqbal, reflecting on the country's eight decades of progress in various sectors.

Emphasizing Pakistan's commitment to national sovereignty and peaceful coexistence, Dr. Naseer highlighted ongoing efforts to resolve regional issues, particularly the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, through dialogue and diplomacy. The High Commissioner expressed gratitude to the Sri Lankan government and people for their warm hospitality, noting significant progress in bilateral relations.

This progress includes the Sri Lanka–Pakistan Free Trade Agreement, growing industrial SME linkages, technology exchange in gems and jewellery, and removal of trade barriers for agricultural exports such as tea, pineapple, and avocado. The Pakistani diaspora also invests heavily in Sri Lanka's pharmaceutical sector.

Cultural, educational, and Gandhara Buddhist tourism initiatives are also thriving. The event concluded with a gathering of Sri Lankan dignitaries, diplomats, business leaders, media, and the Pakistani diaspora, underscoring the long-lasting and unconditional nature of the Pakistan–Sri Lanka relationship.