FLOREAL, Mauritius, Aug 18: The High Commission of Pakistan in Mauritius commemorated the 80th Independence Day of Pakistan with a solemn yet spirited flag-hoisting ceremony at the Chancery in Floreal, bringing together dignitaries, members of the Pakistani diaspora and friends of Pakistan.The ceremony was attended by Deputy Mayor of Curepipe Ms. Ami-Lepois Marie Diana, President of the Mau-Pak Association Mr. Iqbal Bellat, former High Commissioner of Mauritius to Pakistan Mr. Rafick Ellahi, President of the Noon Society, President of Friends of Pakistan, members of the Pakistani community, families and local friends of Pakistan.
Official messages from the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out on the occasion. Chargé d’Affaires Mrs. Khadijah Khalid Khan subsequently hoisted the national flag as the National Anthem was played.In her keynote address, Mrs. Khan paid rich tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, highlighting his visionary leadership and noting that Pakistan is observing his 150th birth anniversary with national reverence this year.She also highlighted Pakistan’s significant role in the international community, including its longstanding contribution to UN peacekeeping, as well as its position as the world’s fifth-most populous country.
The Chargé d’Affaires emphasized the deep-rooted and historic bonds between Pakistan and Mauritius, noting the longstanding people-to-people and cultural ties between the two friendly nations. She cited landmarks such as the historic Jinnah Market in Port Louis as symbols of the enduring relationship.Mrs. Khan also appreciated the vibrant Pakistani community in Mauritius, particularly families and youth, for serving as cultural ambassadors and strengthening the bonds of friendship between Pakistan and Mauritius.Quoting the timeless message of Allama Muhammad Iqbal on unity, she called upon the Pakistani community to remain united, disciplined and supportive of one another while continuing to contribute positively to the societies in which they live.The ceremony concluded with a renewed expression of commitment to Pakistan’s progress, prosperity and its enduring friendship with Mauritius.
