To celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the Independence Day of Pakistan, the Consulate General of Pakistan in Chicago organized a simple and dignified ceremony at Daley Center Plaza, today. Mr. Tariq Karim, Consul General of Pakistan hoisted the Pakistan flag at the Plaza.
The ceremony was attended by a large number of Pakistani-American community members representing various segments, with an equally impressive number of locals. In addition, Cook County Treasurer, mayors of various cities, members of consular corps, Federal, State & City officials and representatives of the Attorney General & Mayor of Chicago were also present. Messages of felicitations were also received from the Governor of Illinois, Congressman Sean Casten and mayor of Chicago and other cities.
Consul General Tariq Karim, in his remarks, congratulated the Pakistani-American community on the Diamond Jubilee of Pakistan while emphasizing the historic significance of the Independence Day and vision of the Founding Fathers of Pakistan. He also drew attention of the international community on the plight of oppressed people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK) and their legitimate struggle for the right to self-determination.
The Consul general stated that, despite various challenges, Pakistan has achieved several milestones in the last 75 years. He highlighted that Pakistan’s geographic location, its demographic dividend and market size, democratic orientation, rich human and natural resources and liberal investment policies have made Pakistan as an important economic and transit hub, investment and tourist destination in the world. He also shared Pakistan’s success stories in various fields, including its fight against terrorism and handling the Covid-19 pandemic. He stated that Pakistan has shifted its focus from geo-politics to geo-economics with greater emphasis on peaceful neighborhood, regional connectivity, human security and economic development.
The Consul General highlighted the importance of longstanding and broad-based relations between Pakistan and the United States as the two countries celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic relations. He stated that there was an immense potential for the two sides to further enhance and widen their relations in different fields.
The Consul General lauded the role and services of large, hardworking and thriving Pakistani Diaspora in the US. He underlined the contribution of Pakistani-American community in the socio-economic development of the two countries and their bridge building role. He shared various success stories of innovators, entrepreneurs, professionals, scientists, educationists, managers and artists from Pakistani Diaspora in the Midwest who are actively contributing for the welfare of society. He assured the community that the Government of Pakistan recognized them as an asset and was committed to ensure their welfare by initiating various policies and initiatives.
The event included cultural performances by Pakistani artists.
Prior to the flag hoisting ceremony today, the 14th August was celebrated by the Pakistani-American community in Chicago by holding its traditional parade at the Devon Avenue, which was led by Consul General Tariq Karim and attended by a large number of people. The same evening, a flag hoisting ceremony and a cultural show was held at Glendale Heights, in which prominent singers, including Hassan Jehangir, performed. A large number of people turned up to this event, including Mayor of Glendale Heights and other local officials and friends of Pakistan. Consul General Tariq Karim was the Chief Guest. In addition, Independence Day celebrations were also organized by the Pakistani-American community in other Midwestern States.
Chicago IL
August 16, 2022
