On the auspicious occasion of the 68th Independence Day of Pakistan, I wish to extend my heartiest felicitations to the Pakistani community in Saudi Arabia.

On this day in 1947, the Almighty Allah blessed the Muslims of South Asia with a separate homeland where they could lead their lives according to their faith and aspirations.

Today, Pakistan is a strong, resilient and independent Islamic state.

It has been blessed with all the fundamentals of a strong state: A democratic government, independent judiciary, thriving and free media, and dynamic civil society.

We are proud of our large pool of trained and experienced engineers, doctors, bankers, lawyers and other professionals who have been an asset not only for Pakistan but for the entire Ummah and international community.

Pakistan is an important member of the global community.

We are at the forefront of global efforts for the maintenance of peace and security in the world. We are one of the largest contributors to the UN’s peacekeeping forces around the globe.

As a frontline state in the fight against terror, we have paid a heavy price in terms of loss of precious lives and billions of dollars to the economy.

Thousands of our innocent people and valiant soldiers have laid down their lives in the noble cause. Even as we celebrate the Independence Day, the Pakistani armed forces are engaged in an operation to clear parts of North Waziristan from terrorists.

I am glad that Pakistani community in the Kingdom shares my sense of pride in our special relationship with Saudi Arabia.

Based on the solid foundations of Islamic identity, shared historical heritage and commonality of perceptions on national and international issues, these relations continue to gain strength with each passing day.

The relationship is nurtured by the special love and reverence that the people of Pakistan have for Saudi Arabia, the holy land.

The government and people of Pakistan also have profound love and respect for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz, Crown Prince Salman, Deputy Crown Prince Muqrin bin Abdul Aziz, the royal family and the government and people of Saudi Arabia.

The Government of Pakistan is truly proud of the contributions made by the Pakistan community in the Kingdom toward the progress and prosperity of Saudi Arabia.

With its untiring hard work, supreme dedication and endless love for Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, the Pakistani expatriate community has functioned as a strong bond between the two countries.

I am confident that the relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will continue to grow by leaps and bounds in the coming years. 

Long Live Pakistan.

Long Live Saudi-Pakistan friendship.

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Khayyam Akbar, charge d’affaires, Embassy of Pakistan, Riyadh