On the auspicious occasion of the National Day of Pakistan, I wish to convey my deepest felicitations to all Pakistanis particularly those who are residing in the Kingdom.

The creation of Pakistan is the result of a heroic struggle of the Muslims of South Asia for their independent homeland. The independence movement was effectively launched on March 23 1940.

Around seven years later, under the dynamic leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, they succeeded in achieving their objective — an independent homeland, Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

Pakistan epitomizes aspirations of our founding fathers.

Their vision was to establish a country where we all could lead our lives in accordance with the Islamic ideals of freedom, sovereignty, democracy, equality, justice, tolerance and non-discrimination. Today these founding principles are the legal and political foundations of Pakistan.

At the same time, the rights of minorities are fully respected and protected in the Constitution.

Our nation gave numerous sacrifices during the Pakistan movement with a strong sense of mission and an unwavering resolution.

It has faced several challenges since the establishment of Pakistan, each time it emerged more resilient and stronger after successfully overcoming them.

We are determined as ever to protect our sovereignty and independence as well as sustain Pakistan’s social and economic development.

On this occasion, I also wish to acknowledge the valuable contribution of the vibrant and dynamic Pakistan community in the development and growth of Saudi Arabia.

Our community has served both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia with characteristic fervor, loyalty, commitment, diligence and dedication.

It is, in fact, the most unmistakable link between our two countries.

It is my belief that the members of Pakistan community will continue to contribute to the socio-economic development of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia as well as to Pakistan’s brotherly relations with Saudi Arabia, which is their second home.

The Consulate General of Pakistan, Jeddah, has always striven to provide best services to all those members of our industrious community who approach us on account of their consular and welfare issues.

We have launched several initiatives to outreach to them with a view to further improve our services at the Consulate. I am grateful to our community for their cooperation and support for enabling us to succeed.

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia share common political, strategic and economic objectives.

The relationship between the two countries is exemplary, which has been further strengthened and deepened due to the recent visit Crown Prince Salman to Pakistan.

The two countries have jointly worked to achieve durable peace and security for our region and beyond.

We are also determined to promote sustainable socio-economic development not only for our respective peoples but also for the Islamic Ummah at large.

Let us pledge to redouble our efforts to further deepen the existing all weather and time-tested relationship between Pakistan and brotherly Saudi Arabia.

Let us pray for the security and prosperity of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

Long Live Pakistan.

Long Live Pakistan-Saudi Arabia Friendship.

— Aftab Ahmad Khokher Consul General of Pakistan, Jeddah