Says Pakistan has remained committed to finding pathways towards peace and stability
Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations (UN) Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad on Saturday highlighted the country’s mediatory role in the US-Iran conflict, adding that amid the recent global instability and conflict, Pakistan had remained committed to finding pathways towards peace and stability.
Ahmad said this during an Independence Day celebration at Pakistan House in New York (NY), US, to mark Pakistan’s 80th Independence Day, according to a press release issued by the Pakistan Mission.
Pakistan’s Consul General in NY Aamer Ahmad Atozai, Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Usman Jadoon, officers and staff of the mission and consulate, and their families attended the ceremony.
Speaking on the occasion, Ahmad called for renewed commitment to the country’s founding ideals, sovereignty, peace, security and socio-economic development.
Paying tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Ahmad described him as an extraordinary leader, a visionary and a statesman who not only led the struggle for freedom but also guided the creation of a sovereign state.
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“Few individuals significantly alter the course of history. Fewer still modify the map of the world. Hardly anyone can be credited with creating a nation-state. Mohammad Ali Jinnah did all three,” he said, citing the Quaid’s biographer, Stanley Wolpert.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s journey since August 14, 1947, Ahmad highlighted the resilience, courage and achievements of the people across diverse fields, “which were achieved against the heaviest of odds.”
During the event, he also paid tribute to the armed forces for their valour in safeguarding the country and protecting its people, noting the strength demonstrated in defending borders during the May 2025 conflict with India.
Ambassador also highlighted the achievements of countrymen/women around the world, working as innovators, athletes, and artists who continue to bring pride to the country through their contributions.
Acknowledging the contribution of Saima Saleem and Aleena Majeed, he said their work at the Permanent Mission continues to serve as an inspiration.
Speaking on the occasion, he further said that Pakistan had overcome significant structural and economic challenges since its independence and continued to demonstrate resilience in the face of adversity.
He also reaffirmed the country’s strong moral, political and diplomatic support for the people in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), and for the freedom and rights of Palestinian brothers and sisters.
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The envoy emphasised the need for continued efforts to combat terrorism and strengthen Pakistan’s economic and developmental progress.
Addressing the children attending the ceremony, he emphasised that they represented the future of Pakistan and underscored the collective responsibility to create a country that would continue to “shine bright forever.”
Concluding his remarks, Ahmad extended his “warmest wishes” to all Pakistanis on the 80th Independence Day and called for strengthened unity.
Speaking at the Independence Day celebration event, Consul General Aamer Ahmad Atozai paid a rich tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the leaders and workers of the Pakistan Movement, and all those whose sacrifices made independence possible.
Emphasising that freedom is both a legacy and a responsibility, he underscored the enduring relevance of Quaid-e-Azam’s principles of Unity, Faith and Discipline.
Atozai highlighted the nation’s resilience, unity and determination to safeguard its sovereignty and national interests while remaining committed to peace, dialogue and diplomacy.
He also appreciated the Pakistani-American community for its outstanding contributions to the US and its continued support for Pakistan through remittances, investment, philanthropy, knowledge and expertise, describing the community as a vital bridge between Pakistan and the US.
Read more: Pakistan mission in Delhi marks 80th Independence Day
The consul general called for Independence Day to not only serve as a celebration but also as a renewal of the collective commitment to building a peaceful, prosperous, inclusive and strong Pakistan where its youth can realise their aspirations and the country can continue to stand with dignity and pride in the comity of nations.
Earlier, the mission and consulate officials — Zulifqar Ali, Umar Sheikh and Muhammad Faheem — read out the messages of the president, prime minister and deputy prime minister and foreign minister of Pakistan.
Counsellor Jawad Ajmal conducted the proceedings of the flag-hoisting ceremony. The Pakistani flag, featuring the iconic crescent and star, was hoisted at the Pakistan House to celebrate Independence Day.
Ambassador to the UN unfurled the flag as the national anthem was played.
