The National Day Reception was hosted by the Pakistani Embassy in Washington DC
In his opening remarks, H.E. Mr. Jalil Abbas Jilani, Pakistan’s Ambassador to United States, highlighted the efforts that the Pakistani people have made toward consolidating democracy, stimulating economic growth, and defeating the forces of extremism.
Ambassador Jilani also presented a positive review of Pakistan-U.S. relations, citing a strong strategic partnership defined by strong economic and energy cooperation, defence and security relations and people-to-people contacts.
He congratulated Pakistani American community on this auspicious occasion. He stated that the creation of Pakistan within seven years of the passage of the 1940 Lahore Resolution reflected the wisdom and tenacity of our founding fathers. Under the impeccable and sagacious leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, the Muslims of the sub-continent realized their dream. It was now incumbent upon us to make Pakistan a true welfare state as envisioned by the Quaid-e-Azam.
Congressman Mark Meadows and Undersecretary Patrick Kennedy from the State Department conveyed warm wishes to the people of Pakistan from the people of the United States.
Heather Schmid, Grammy Academy Member, who is also the Global Music Ambassador sang Pakistani national songs in Urdu on the occasion. The audience who were thrilled by the performance profusely applauded Heather Schmid who has also performed in China and Pakistan. She is the first ever American and Hollywood celebrity to create and sing original Pakistani National Song in Urdu ” Phelay Hum Pakistani Hain”.
Earlier in the morning, the Pakistan flag was hoisted by Ambassador Jilani in a dignified ceremony at the Pakistan Embassy. The messages of the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan were also read on the occasion.
March 23, 2016
Washington D.C
