Message by the High Commissioner of Pakistan, Maj. Gen. (R) Dr. Shahid Ahmad Hashmat
It is with great pleasure that, on the auspicious occasion of the National Day of Pakistan, I am conveying a message of peace, harmony and best wishes to all Sri Lankans from the Government and the people of Pakistan. I also wish to express best wishes and felicitations to the members of the Pakistani community in Sri Lanka.
23rd March 1940 is the most significant day in the history of Pakistan. On this day, the idea of Pakistan was formalized by the Muslims of South Asia to launch their struggle for obtaining an independent homeland.
Since its independence, despite several challenges, Pakistan has steadily moved forward on the path of progress and development. The Government of Pakistan, cognizant of our enormous national potential, has consistently pursued the country’s journey to peace and prosperity through an elaborate social and economic development agenda.
Pakistan Government believes in the highest standards for democratic and human values and respect for international peace, security and rule of law which is substantiated through our commitment to the UN Charter and leading contributions to the United Nations Peace Keeping Operations in the world’s most difficult areas of conflict.
Prime Minister of Pakistan, H.E. Imran Khan, has set forth his vision of “Peaceful Neighbourhood” laying the greatest emphasis on regional and international peace, connectivity and people-to-people linkages as the means to regional and global prosperity.
To defend our values for peace and tolerance, our valiant peoples and armed forces have fought shoulder to shoulder to eliminate the scourge of international terrorism over the past 18 years. More than 70,000 precious lives have been sacrificed. Our school children, teachers, doctors, nurses, business and spiritual leaders, intellectuals, armed forces and para-military personnel have been targeted. Yet, we are standing tall and fearless with an unwavering resolve to defeat the dark forces of terrorism.
Pakistan and Sri Lanka inherit rich cultural heritage and strong cultural relations, which are deeprooted in history. Our modern day relations are deeply embedded in commonality of strategic vision between our leaderships and the two peoples. The mutual respect between the two people is the foundation of special relationship that is further cemented through eternal values of universal peace and love for humanity, espoused by Islam and Buddhism.
On behalf of the Government and people of Pakistan, let me reiterate Pakistan’s continued commitment and support to the Government and people of Sri Lanka in their endeavours for achieving a bright and prosperous future for their beautiful country.
Availing this opportunity, I wish to extend our best wishes to the people of Sri Lanka, its leadership and the government, the continued progress, peace, national unity, reconciliation and harmony in the years ahead. Long Live Pakistan-sri Lanka Friendship!