Independence Day of Pakistan celebrated in Ankara

ANKARA: The 66th Independence Day of Pakistan was commemorated at Pakistan Embassy here on Monday.

Ambassador of Pakistan Muhammad Haroon Shaukat unfurled the national flag on the tune of national anthem in the presence of Pakistani community and embassy officials.

He read out messages of the President and the Prime Minister on the occasion.

President Asif Ali Zardari in his message stated that the founding fathers envisioned Pakistan as a country where democracy, constitutionalism and rule of law would reign supreme.

"Let us on this day rededicate ourselves to the democratic ideals and principles of our Qaid Mr. Muhammad Ali Jinnah."

"On this day, I wish to call upon everyone to work together for the strengthening of democracy, empowerment of the people and for a progressive, tolerant, moderate and modern Pakistan as envisioned by our great leaders," he added.

The message of the Prime Minister of Pakistan Raja Pervez Ashraf highlighted that the present government has taken various historic initiatives during the last four and half years and pursued a policy of reconciliation.

The country's foreign policy was framed in accordance with parliamentary guidelines and national interest.

He said Pakistan is confronted with various challenges such as energy crisis, terrorism and extremism which have showed down the pace of socio-economic development.

Despite all the difficulties, Pakistan is a vibrant polity where judiciary is independent, Parliament is functioning, media is vibrant, and civil society is active, he added.

The Ambassador later on briefed the members of the Pakistani community about recent developments in Pakistan-Turkey relations.

He said members of Pakistani community are also the Ambassadors of their country and urged them to continue playing their active role in bringing the two countries further closer.