LONDON, MAR 22 (DNA) – The Pakistani flag was hoisted on the historical Westminster Abbey on Monday March 19 to honour the occasion of Pakistan Day .

The church that has stood over a thousand years and faces the British Parliament honored Pakistan Day by hoisting the national flag and sent a prayer out for the safety and prosperity of both countries.

According the Pakistan High Commission in London, the Pakistani flag kept flying on top of the north tower of the Abbey the entire day.

“It is a moment of pride to see the green flag hoisted mightily and representing our identity in the world,” said Pakistan Deputy High Commissioner Zahid Hafeez who attended the ceremony.

There were special prayers offered for strengthening Pakistan-UK friendship and the well being of the people of the two countries. The Abbey also organised a special evensong in connection with the national day of Pakistan.

Pakistan Day commemorates the passing of Lahore Resolution when Muslims of the Indian subcontinent demanded a separate homeland on March 23, 1940.

Westminster Abbey has strong links and prays for the countries of the Commonwealth throughout its regular pattern of daily services on their national day.

Each year, the high commissioners of the Commonwealth countries are invited by the Dean to an evensong on or close to their national day. The national flag is hoisted when the High Commission is represented at the event.

On August 14, 2017, the Pakistan High Commission grabbed attention when it held the annual Independence Day ceremony at its Knightsbridge compound.