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ISLAMABAD, Jan 16 (APP):Ambassador of Myanmar to Pakistan, H.E. Wunna Han, has said that the 78th Independence Day of Myanmar is a moment of remembrance, pride, and renewed commitment to the ideals of freedom, unity, and progress for the people of Myanmar.
Addressing the 78th Independence Day ceremony held at a local hotel in Islamabad, the Ambassador stated that the day resonates deeply in the hearts of the Myanmar people. “We celebrate the auspicious occasion of the 78th Anniversary of Myanmar’s Independence—a day that holds profound national significance,” he said.
Highlighting Myanmar’s rich civilizational heritage, Ambassador Wunna Han said the country’s history spans centuries, from the golden spires of Bagan to the serene waters of Inle Lake. “Our land reflects a mosaic of traditions, languages, and faiths. This cultural heritage is not only a source of national pride but also a bridge connecting Myanmar to the world,” he added.
He noted that Myanmar’s classical dance, traditional crafts, and Buddhist architecture stand as living testaments to a nation that values its past while embracing the future.
The Ambassador also emphasized the enduring friendship between Myanmar and Pakistan, calling it a relationship built on mutual respect, cultural exchange, and cooperation.
He recalled that Pakistan was the first country to recognize Myanmar, with diplomatic relations established on August 14, 1947—the very day of Pakistan’s independence.
He further noted that Myanmar’s first Ambassador to Pakistan, U Pe Khin, was the first foreign envoy to present credentials to the Founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, in Karachi. On January 4, 1948, Myanmar’s Independence Day reception was held at the Karachi Club—the first-ever diplomatic national day reception in Pakistan—with Quaid-e-Azam attending as Chief Guest.
U Pe Khin later served as the first Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Karachi for nearly a decade, reflecting the depth of bilateral relations, the Ambassador said.
Ambassador Wunna Han also recalled historical and cultural links, including the exile of the last Mughal Emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar, to Rangoon (now Yangon) in 1858.
He noted that the renowned Urdu poet’s tomb is well preserved near the Shwedagon Pagoda and that Pakistani leaders visiting Myanmar have consistently paid tribute there.
Expressing appreciation for Pakistan’s preservation of Buddhist heritage, he praised the Gandhara Civilization sites in Taxila, Swat Valley, and Peshawar, calling them invaluable to global history.
The Ambassador said Pakistan and Myanmar continue to cooperate in education, trade, and people-to-people exchanges, adding that warm community interactions further strengthen goodwill and understanding between the two nations.
Outlining Myanmar’s vision for the future, he said the country seeks to deepen cultural diplomacy, expand economic collaboration, strengthen educational partnerships, and enhance regional cooperation across South and Southeast Asia.
“We believe that Myanmar and Pakistan, working hand in hand, can contribute meaningfully to a more peaceful and interconnected world,” he said, concluding with the hope that the friendship between the two nations will continue to flourish. “May our nations walk together on the path of progress, peace, and prosperity.”