By Diplomatic Correspondent:
The High Commission of Pakistan, Pretoria, commemorated Pakistan Day on Monday, 23 March 2026, with a simple and dignified flag hoisting ceremony held at the High Commission premises in Pretoria.
The High Commissioner of Pakistan to South Africa, H.E. Mr Malik Muhammad Farooq, hoisted the national flag to the tune of the National Anthem of Pakistan. The significant ceremony was attended by members of the Pakistani diaspora from different walks of life, friends of Pakistan in South Africa, as well as officers and officials of the High Commission.
The proceedings commenced with a recitation from the Holy Quran. Messages of the President, Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister of Pakistan on the occasion of Pakistan Day were read out.
The messages paid tribute to the vision, resolve and sacrifices of the martyrs and national heroes who rendered immense sacrifices for the security, stability and progress of Pakistan, and highlighted the importance of unity, steadfastness and collective effort in advancing Pakistan’s development and safeguarding its sovereignty and national interests.
The messages also reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir in their just struggle for the right to self-determination.
In his remarks, High Commissioner Malik Muhammad Farooq paid tribute to Pakistan’s founding fathers and all those who struggled and sacrificed for the creation of Pakistan. He said that Pakistan, throughout its history, had faced and overcome numerous challenges with courage, resilience and national unity, and would continue its journey towards greater progress, strength and achievement.
Referring to the warm and friendly relations between Pakistan and South Africa, the High Commissioner expressed appreciation to the enterprising Pakistani community in South Africa, noting that they had distinguished themselves through hard work and success in diverse fields. He also expressed appreciation for South Africa’s open and inclusive environment.
He urged the Pakistani community to continue abiding by the laws of South Africa and to contribute positively to the country’s development and social harmony.
The ceremony concluded with a dua for the peace, progress and prosperity of Pakistan. – @NewsSA_Online
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