OTTAWA: MAR 24 (DNA):The National Day of Pakistan was commemorated at the High Commission of Pakistan in Ottawa with traditional patriotic fervour. High Commissioner Muhammad Saleem hoisted the national flag in a graceful ceremony attended by members of the Pakistani Community, High Commission staff, students and friends of Pakistan at the Chancery premises.

Special Messages of President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on this auspicious occasion were read out to the audience. The Messages reaffirmed the commitment to realize the vision of the founding fathers to make Pakistan a strong and prosperous country. In his address, the High Commissioner paid tribute to the visionary leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the countless sacrifices made by the nation’s forefathers. He underscored Pakistan’s remarkable achievements in various fields including economic growth, technological advancement and contributions to global peace and security amid daunting challenges over the last seven decades.

The High Commissioner emphasized the significance of strengthening bilateral relations between Pakistan and Canada in all domains including political, economic, higher education and cultural exchanges. The event concluded with special prayers for the prosperity of the motherland.