Sweden marks National Day, highlights 77 years of ties with Pakistan, a Century of Syed Babar Ali’s legacy

ISLAMABAD, Jun 04 (APP):Sweden celebrated its National Day by reflecting on key milestones in its history and highlighting 77 years of diplomatic relations with Pakistan.

Addressing guests at the event, the Swedish Ambassador Alexandra Berg von Linde used a series of numbers, including 6, 77, 100, 250, and 500 to tell the story of Sweden’s development, its global role, and its partnership with Pakistan.

The ambassador also paid tribute to Pakistani businessman Syed Babar Ali, who will turn 100 later this month, for his contribution to strengthening ties between the two countries.

Sweden’s National Day celebration in Islamabad brought together government officials, diplomats, parliamentarians, business leaders, and members of civil society to mark the occasion and reaffirm cooperation between Sweden and Pakistan.

Welcoming the guests, the Swedish Ambassador recalled last year’s National Day event, which was disrupted by unexpected rain. Referring to recent weather conditions, he said this year’s gathering had so far proceeded without interruption.

The ambassador said Sweden’s National Day, observed on June 6, represents important moments in the country’s history. He noted that Sweden became an independent nation in 1523 and adopted a constitution in 1809 that laid the foundation for modern governance, citizens’ rights, and the rule of law.

She said Sweden has undergone major economic and social changes over the centuries, evolving from a largely rural nation into a modern economy. According to her, the country’s progress has been driven by its ability to adapt to change and remain open to new ideas and international cooperation.

The ambassador also highlighted milestones that have shaped Sweden’s place in the world. These include more than 250 years of freedom of expression and press, 80 years of membership in the United Nations, 30 years in the European Union, and two years as a member of NATO.

Turning to relations with Pakistan, she said the two countries are celebrating 77 years of diplomatic ties this year, describing the relationship as one based on cooperation, dialogue, and mutual trust.

The ambassador paid special tribute to Syed Babar Ali, who will celebrate his 100th birthday later this month. She noted that Babar Ali played an important role in strengthening Pakistan-Sweden relations through his business and educational initiatives.

Swedish Ambassador highlighted her role in bringing Swedish packaging company Tetra Pak to Pakistan in the 1960s and his long service as Sweden’s Honorary Consul in Lahore.

Speaking about current global challenges, the ambassador stressed the importance of diplomacy and dialogue. Sweden values Pakistan’s efforts to support peace and mediation in recent months and looks forward to continuing cooperation on international issues, she noted.

The ambassador emphasized that openness has been a key factor behind Sweden’s economic growth and innovation. International partnerships and the exchange of ideas have enabled Swedish industries to develop and compete globally, she added.

The ambassador noted that Swedish companies have maintained a presence in Pakistan for many years. Also said firms from Sweden have contributed to sectors including information technology, telecommunications, industrial solutions, packaging, transport, energy, textiles, and environmental technology.

She added that cooperation between Swedish innovation and Pakistani talent offers opportunities for further growth and investment, and also expressed confidence that both countries can continue building stronger economic and institutional links in the years ahead.

Concluding her remarks, the ambassador thanked Federal Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar, State Minister for Law Barrister Aqeel Malik, Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Federal Minister for Energy (Petroleum Division) Ali Pervaiz Malik, and Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr. Musadik Masood Malik, Minister of State for Finance and Revenue Bilal Azhar Kayani and Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi were the chief guests at the event.  Among others, government representatives, businesses, entrepreneurs, students, artists, activists, and members of civil society, for their role in strengthening ties between Sweden and Pakistan.

The ambassador said the most important achievements are still ahead and will be reflected in future partnerships, investments, and shared ideas between the two nations.