The Pakistan High Commissioner to Maldives Vice Admiral (rtd) Muhammad Fayyaz Gilani has expressed confidence in the further enhancement of bilateral relations between both nations during a ceremony held to commemorate the 84th National Day of Pakistan. Minister of Social and Family Development, Dr. Aishath Shiham, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, lending significant weight to the celebration.
During the event, the Pakistan High Commissioner underscored efforts to bolster relations in various sectors including trade, health, tourism, climate, and people-to-people contacts, emphasising the enduring and warm ties between Pakistan and Maldives, rooted in shared faith, culture, and mutual respect.
In his address, he paid tribute to the founding fathers of Pakistan, notably Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah and Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal, for their visionary leadership and steadfast commitment to the democratic struggle that led to the creation of Pakistan. He highlighted Pakistan's remarkable progress across diverse sectors over the decades, emphasizing its resilience in overcoming challenges.
Furthermore, the High Commissioner reiterated Pakistan's dedication to multilateral cooperation and diplomacy for regional and global peace, stressing the significance of upholding the UN Charter and international law. He reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering stance on the implementation of UN Resolutions concerning Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
In her remarks, Minister Dr. Aishath Shiham conveyed heartfelt felicitations from President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan on Pakistan Day, reaffirming the close relations between the two nations. She commended Pakistan's cooperation and assistance at bilateral and international levels, expressing the Maldivian government's commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties.
Additionally, Deputy Head of Mission, Zulqurnain Ahmad, welcomed the guests and provided insights into the historical significance of Pakistan Day, commemorating the adoption of the Pakistan Resolution on 23rd March 1940. He expressed gratitude to all attendees for contributing to the memorable event and thanked the Pakistan Maldives Friendship Association for their support in organizing the reception.
The gathering included esteemed dignitaries such as Ministers, State Ministers, senior government officials, High Commissioners, Ambassadors, diplomats, representatives of state-owned and private enterprises, MNDF senior officials, members of the Pakistani community, and the Pakistan Maldives Friendship Association (PMFA), alongside media personalities. The reception served as a testament to the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Maldives and the shared commitment to mutual prosperity and cooperation in the years ahead.