ISLAMABAD, Aug 14 (APP):Archbishop Dr. Joseph Arshad wants the Christian community to glow in the development and progress of the country, just like the crescent and star outshines in the Pakistani flag.

“We are celebrating the Independence Day and I hope and want the Christian community to outshine for the prosperity and welfare of the country just like the white crescent and star roars in the Pakistani flag,” he said at the 76th Pakistan Independence Day flag hoisting ceremony held at the St. Joseph’s Catholic Cathedral, Lalkurti, Rawalpindi, on Monday.

He was of the view that we all should stand abreast with passion and zeal during this difficult time when our country was surrounded by various challenges. “We should join hands to make Pakistan a prosperous and successful nation. We should continue striving to help the affected people, as many are still struggling with unemployment, health, economic needs, housing, and other issues and challenges.

He also prayed that may Almighty God continue to bestow His blessings upon our country and grant us the spirit to work together in unity for the development and prosperity of Pakistan so that all may live together as one nation in love, peace and harmony.

A cake cutting ceremony was also held after the flag hoisting ceremony. Father Anosh David, Catechist Imran and Farhan, Cathedral Committee head Alexander William and others were also present on the occasion.

ISLAMABAD, Aug 14 (APP): The Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) on Monday resonated with patriotic fervor as it commemorated the 76th anniversary of Independence Day.

The campus came alive with spirited festivities, reflecting the nation’s unity and pride.

The celebrations kicked off with a display of honor and respect as the university’s security guards extended a ceremonial guard of honour to AIOU’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood. With pride and solemnity, Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood hoisted the national flag, symbolizing the enduring spirit of Pakistan.

Amidst the air of unity, a collective prayer was offered, invoking blessings for the prosperity and progress of Pakistan. Decked in vibrant shades of green and white, exuberant children expressed their profound love for the nation through heartwarming performances of national songs, eloquent speeches, and a captivating tableau aptly titled “Pakistan Zindabad” (Long Live Pakistan).

Distinguished guests graced the occasion, underscoring the international significance of the day. Among those in attendance were Aleksandr Mikhailov, Anastasiia Tenikhina, and Rasim Akhatov from Russia. The Turkish delegation was represented by Dr. Halil Tokar, Director of Yunus Emre Institute, Balqees, Consul of the Turkiye Embassy, and Education Attaché, Mehmet Toyran. In a harmonious blend of cultures, Turkish artists infused the air with melodies of love and unity through their musical renditions.

Addressing the gathering, AIOU VC Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood, emphasized the pivotal role of the youth in shaping the nation’s destiny. He underscored the importance of education and skill development for a prosperous future.

Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood also highlighted the significance of paying homage to the nation’s forefathers, particularly Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal, whose visionary leadership paved the way for Pakistan’s creation.

As the sun began to set on this memorable day, Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Prof. Dr. Abdul Aziz Sahir, and esteemed personalities including Dr. Samina Aman, Dr. Zahid Majeed, Dr. Halil Tokar, Aleksandr Mikhailov, and Anastasiia Tenikhina took the stage to share their insights and extend their warm wishes to the AIOU community.

The event served as a poignant reminder that Pakistan’s progress and prosperity lie in the hands of its vibrant youth. The echoes of unity, gratitude, and determination reverberated throughout the celebration, igniting a renewed sense of patriotism and responsibility among all who were present.

ISLAMABAD, Aug 14 (APP): Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia Jemal Beker Abdula on Monday extended warm and heartfelt congratulations to the government and people of Pakistan on their 76th Independence Day.

“As we join in your celebrations, we reflect upon our shared cultural and political values and common goals that bind our two great nations together,” the ambassador remarked in his message on the Independence Day.

“During my stay in Pakistan, I have been deeply impressed by the rich tapestry of history and culture that defines this resilient nation. The strong bond anchored in history and culture between Pakistan and Ethiopia has been evident in the warm hospitality and camaraderie extended to me and my team during my stay,” the ambassador said.

He assured the Pakistani nation of his unwavering commitment to further strengthening and deepening the bilateral relations between the two countries. “By taking special initiatives and fostering robust cooperation in various fields, we can propel our nations towards a new era of enhanced partnership and mutual prosperity,” he added.

“The exchange of knowledge, experiences, and appreciation of each other’s cuisine and culture has been an enlightening journey for me. Pakistanis are a lovely nation, and I am grateful for the friendship and cooperation extended to me during my tenure here,” the ambassador remarked.

“As we look forward to the future, let us remain steadfast in our resolve to work together towards a brighter, more interconnected world,” he said.

The ambassador believed that by strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation, both the countries could achieve greater heights and bring lasting benefits to the two nations.