Pakistan's Embassy in Ankara marks national day

ANKARA

Pakistan’s Embassy in Ankara on Saturday marked its national day with a reception.

After a flag-raising ceremony, Pakistan’s national anthem was played and Pakistani students took stage to sing traditional songs in their native dress.

Traditional cuisine from several different regions of Pakistan was served to guests at the reception.

Speaking at the event, Pakistan's Ambassador to Ankara Muhammad Syrus Sajjad Qazi thanked Turkey "for always standing beside their Pakistani brothers in the most challenging of times."

He said the fraternal bonds between the two countries "are perennial."

Qazi said Pakistan's national day "serves as a reminder to nurture and uphold those ideals, principles, and goals that inspired the Muslims of the sub-continent to forge unity in their ranks and become one to realize their dreams."

"On this day, 79 years ago, the Muslims of the sub-continent, through their collective will and indomitable spirit, expressed unshakable resolve to carve out a separate homeland for themselves where they could fashion their lives in accordance with their own traditions, values, and culture," Qazi said.

Mentioning how Pakistan has recently gone through challenging times, he added, however: "There is indeed no force on earth that can undo Pakistan."