ISLAMABAD, AUG 8 /DNA/ – Pakistan celebrated Nelson Mandela International Day with a special event organized by the Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East and Africa (CAMEA) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Pakistan Africa Institute for Development and Research (PAIDAR).

Key Highlights of the Event

1. Tributes to Mandela’s Global Legacy

• Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed compared Mandela to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, praising his advocacy for Palestine and Kashmir.
• Proposed naming a Pakistani university after Mandela and fostering educational ties with the Global South.

2. Mandela’s Connection to Pakistan

• Ambassador Sohail Mahmood recalled Mandela’s 1992 visit to ISSI and his historic address to Pakistan’s Parliament.
• Highlighted South Africa’s ICJ case on Palestine as a reflection of Mandela’s principles.

3. Africa-Pakistan Relations

• Speakers emphasized deepening Pakistan-Africa ties, calling Africa the “continent of the future.”
• Ambassador Malik Farooq noted Pakistan’s support for South Africa’s independence struggle.

4. Mandela’s Enduring Message

• Ambassador Rudolph Jordaan shared Mandela’s quote on forgiveness: “If I did not leave my bitterness behind, I would still be in prison.”
• Ambassador Khalid Mahmood called Mandela a symbol of justice, equality, and reconciliation.

Exhibition & Closing Notes

• The South African High Commission showcased an exhibition on Mandela’s life.
• The event reinforced Mandela’s legacy as a global icon and his relevance to modern struggles for justice.

Why This Matters

• Nelson Mandela’s values continue to inspire movements for freedom, equality, and anti-racism.
• Pakistan’s engagement with Africa is growing, with calls for stronger diplomatic and educational partnerships.