Formal Celebration of Pakistan Day in Dhaka

Pakistan’s National Day was commemorated in Dhaka with due ceremony and diplomatic decorum, as the Pakistan High Commission hosted a formal event to mark the historic occasion. The programme, held on Monday, 23 March, brought together members of the Pakistani diaspora, students, representatives of civil society, and local media, reflecting both community engagement and diplomatic outreach.

The commenced with the ceremonial hoisting of the national flag by High Commissioner Imran Haider at the High Commission premises in Dhaka. The national anthem of Pakistan was played, followed by a moment of reflection on the country’s founding ideals and historical journey.

In an official message issued on the occasion, the significance of 23 March 1940 was highlighted. On this day, under the leadership of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Lahore Resolution was adopted, laying the intellectual and political foundation for the creation of Pakistan. The resolution articulated the aspiration for a separate homeland for Muslims in the Indian subcontinent, which ultimately culminated in the establishment of Pakistan in 1947.

During the ceremony, messages from Pakistan’s leadership were read aloud, including those from President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. These messages underscored the enduring importance of Pakistan Day, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to unity, economic progress, and democratic stability.

The leaders reiterated Pakistan’s position as a proponent of global peace, while emphasising that sustainable peace in South Asia remains contingent upon a just resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. They reaffirmed continued moral, political, and diplomatic support for the people of Indian-administered Kashmir. Expressions of solidarity were also extended to the people of Palestine, reflecting Pakistan’s longstanding stance on international humanitarian issues.

In reference to national security and resilience, the leadership described “Operation Ghazab-ul-Haq” as a symbol of Pakistan’s determination to counter terrorism and respond to unprovoked aggression. The messaging highlighted a broader narrative of national unity and defence preparedness.

High Commissioner Imran Haider, in his remarks, conveyed warm greetings to Pakistani nationals residing in Bangladesh. He paid tribute to the sacrifices of the country’s founding figures and urged the community to renew its collective commitment to building a strong, progressive, and prosperous Pakistan in line with Jinnah’s vision.

Adding a cultural and educational dimension to the event, a special exhibition was organised, showcasing rare photographs and historical accounts of the Pakistan Movement. The exhibition paid homage to the leadership and struggle of Muhammad Ali Jinnah and his contemporaries, offering attendees a deeper appreciation of the historical context behind the nation’s creation.

Below is a summary of the key aspects of the event:

The through the program not only honoured a defining moment in Pakistan’s history but also reinforced diplomatic ties and cultural connections between Pakistan and Bangladesh, while fostering a sense of unity among expatriates.