Kathmandu : A flag hoisting ceremony was held at the Embassy of Pakistan in Kathmandu on Sunday to mark the 86th National Day of Pakistan. Ambassador Abrar H Hashmi raised the national flag at the chancery building, while official messages from the country’s top leadership were read out during the event. The ceremony highlighted the historical importance of the day and brought together members of the Pakistani community and diplomatic circle.
In his message, President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized that unity and solidarity are key to transforming national aspirations into reality, while calling for strengthening democratic institutions, ensuring rule of law, reducing inequality, empowering women, and eliminating terrorism and extremism. Prime Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif described March 23 as a milestone in South Asian history, reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to global peace. He stressed that lasting peace in the region depends on a just resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue and expressed solidarity with the people of Palestine, along with concern over tensions in the Middle East.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar paid tribute to the sacrifices of Pakistan’s founding leaders and noted that ongoing regional tensions have had economic and political impacts, prompting austerity measures.
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Hashmi congratulated the Pakistani community in Nepal and praised their contributions toward strengthening bilateral ties. He also paid homage to Muhammad Ali Jinnah, underscoring the significance of March 23, 1940, and announced that the National Day reception would not be held this year in line with government directives, while expressing solidarity with those affected by conflicts in the Middle East.
