Nahyan Bin Mubarak Celebrates Pakistan's Independence Day With Over 60,000 Attendees In Dubai

A gathering at the Dubai Exhibition Centre in Expo City Dubai marked Pakistan's 78th Independence Day. Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, attended alongside Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Ambassador of Pakistan to the UAE. The event attracted over 60,000 attendees and was organised by "Emirates Loves Pakistan" Page with support from Dubai Police and the Pakistan Association Dubai.

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan remarked: "It is an honour to join you in commemorating Pakistan’s Independence Day. I extend my warmest congratulations to you all and to the people of Pakistan on this momentous occasion. I share your pride in celebrating what this day signifies for Pakistanis worldwide, a testament to a robust national identity, resilience, determination, achievement, and optimism for the future. Here in Dubai, we also celebrate the deep bonds of friendship and brotherhood uniting Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates."

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The UAE-Pakistan relationship is built on shared values and mutual respect. Sheikh Nahyan highlighted these ties as essential for global prosperity. He praised the Pakistani community's contributions to UAE society through their talent and dedication. This partnership exemplifies fraternal bonds that foster social and economic growth globally.

Faisal Niaz Tirmizi expressed pride in the strong bond between the two nations. He emphasised ongoing efforts to enhance cultural exchange and economic cooperation through joint programmes. These initiatives aim to strengthen ties by bringing communities closer through arts, music, and cultural heritage.

The event showcased Pakistani heritage through cultural activities like traditional dances, music performances, and artistic displays. It celebrated the diverse talents of the Pakistani diaspora in the UAE within a unified cultural framework. The programme also acknowledged their positive contributions to UAE's sustainable development.

A ceremony honoured prominent individuals from the Pakistani community for their achievements in various fields within the UAE. Notable figures included Bashir Ahmed & Masood Haider Afridi of Afridi & Angell law firm, Abdul Salam & Shahida Salam of Pristine Private School, Khan Zaman of Ibrahimi Palace Restaurant, Muhammad Habib of Habib Bank AG Zurich, Shabbir Merchant of Champion Group, Umamah Ali who won NASA Space Challenge App award among others.

Healthcare Advancements

Dr. Faisel Ikram announced plans to expand the Pakistan Medical Centre with a AED 45 million project enhancing services three-fold. Since October 2020, Phase 1 has benefited over 140,000 patients from more than 100 nationalities. The new block will include advanced diagnostics & radiology facilities along with a dialysis unit.

The UAE has been a significant investor in Pakistan across sectors like telecommunications, tourism, IT, oil & gas since relations began in 1971 under Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's leadership. In June this year both countries initiated a strategic partnership focusing on governmental modernisation reflecting their commitment towards collaboration.

Sheikh Nahyan continued: "Our steadfast relationship is founded on shared values, cultural heritage, mutual respect, and a collective vision for peace and prosperity. The UAE stands with Pakistan as a friend and partner. These ties are strengthened daily through the invaluable contributions of the Pakistani community whose talent dedication enriches our country."

Writing Competition Invitation

Sheikh Nahyan highlighted a national writing competition by Watani Al Emarat Foundation with Ministry of Tolerance & Coexistence as part of ‘Year of Community’ initiatives inviting residents to share reflections on 'What the UAE Means to Me.' Submissions can be short stories poems letters or essays via www.myuaestory.ae.

He expressed confidence that many inspiring entries would come from the Pakistani community urging attendees to encourage participation among family friends colleagues sharing stories aspirations achievements gratitude forming collective legacy inspiring future generations.

With inputs from WAM