Kobe: To celebrate the Independence Day of Pakistan, the Pakistani community in Kansai Region held a function at Kobe on 14 August, 2016. The Ambassador who travelled to Kobe immediately after hosting the main Independence Day ceremony and activities in Tokyo in the morning, was the Chief Guest. He was accompanied by the new Consul/Commercial Counselor at the Consulate of Pakistan in Osaka, Mr. Khalid Jamil. Since this was the first time that any Ambassador has attended Independence Day celebrations in the Kansai Region, it was warmly welcomed by the community.
On behalf of the community, Haji Nazar Jan welcomed the Ambassador. Professor Marghoob Hussain of Osaka University spoke about importance of the role of expatriate community in building a favourable image of Pakistan. The national anthem was played. The Ambassador read the messages of the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan which reaffirmed the national determination to eliminate extremism and terrorism; praised the security forces; lauded the consensus on democracy; and underlined that an inclusive Pakistan meant justice, peace and harmony for all under the national flag.
In his speech the Ambassador reiterated the Prime Minister’s sincere message highlighting the importance of tolerance and the sacrifices given by people of all segments of society, religions, sects and parties for Pakistan. He urged the community to work towards building Pakistan according the progressive and modern vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
The Ambassador said that the members of Pakistani community were equally ambassadors of Pakistan in their daily lives. Their success, honourable attitude and love for their country of residence, Japan, which was particularly manifest in their contribution to relief activities during the havoc wrought by earthquake and tsunami in Japan in 2011 had greatly helped in building a positive image of Pakistan. This balanced image of Pakistan could be further strengthened through greater stress on public diplomacy.
Prayers were offered for the victims of terrorism in Quetta, Peshawar, Lahore and other cities.
PR# 45/2016
20-08-2016
Embassy of Pakistan, Tokyo