Independence Day event in New York: Envoy spotlights Pakistan’s global mediation efforts

NEW YORK: The Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah was an extraordinary leader, a visionary and a statesman who not only led the struggle for freedom but also guided the creation of a sovereign state.

This was stated by Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, after the flag hoisting ceremony at the Pakistan House in New York to celebrate Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day.

Pakistan’s Consul General in New York, Aamer Ahmad Atozai, the Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Usman Jadoon, officers and staff of the Mission and the Consulate and their families attended the ceremony, according to a press release of the Pakistan Mission.

Speaking on the occasion, Ambassador Asim Ahmad, called for renewed commitment to Pakistan’s founding ideals, national sovereignty, peace, security and socioeconomic development.

He paid tributes to the Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, describing him as an extraordinary leader.

“Few individuals significantly alter the course of history. Fewer still modify the map of the world. Hardly anyone can be credited with creating a nation-state. Mohammad Ali Jinnah did all three,” he said, citing the Quaid’s biographer, Stanley Wolpert.

Reflecting on Pakistan’s journey since 14 August 1947, the ambassador highlighted the resilience, courage and achievements of the Pakistani people across diverse fields, which were achieved against the heaviest of the odds.

He paid tribute to Pakistan’s Armed Forces for their valour in safeguarding the country and protecting its people, noting the strength demonstrated in defending Pakistan’s borders during the May 2025 conflict with India.

Referring to Pakistan’s mediatory role in the Iran conflict, he said that, amid the recent global instability and conflict, Pakistan had remained committed to finding pathways towards peace and stability.

He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong moral, political and diplomatic support for the people in Jammu and Kashmir and for the freedom and rights of Palestinian brothers and sisters.

Also speaking on the occasion, Consul General Aamer Ahmad Atozai paid rich tribute to the Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the leaders and workers of the Pakistan Movement, and all those whose sacrifices made independence possible.

He also paid special tribute to the Pakistani-American community for its outstanding contributions to the United States and its continued support for Pakistan through remittances, investment, philanthropy, knowledge and expertise, describing the community as a vital bridge between Pakistan and the United States.

Earlier, the Mission and consulate officials — Zulifqar Ali, Umar Sheikh and Muhammad Faheem — read out the messages of the president, the prime minister and the deputy prime minister of Pakistan.

Counsellor Jawad Ajmal conducted the proceedings of the flag-hoisting ceremony.