ON the auspicious occasion of the National Day of Pakistan, I wish to extend my felicitations to all Pakistanis particularly those residing in the Western region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Seventy six years ago, on March 23, 1940, the Muslims of South Asia resolved to establish an independent state where they could lead their lives in accordance with the Islamic ideals of freedom, sovereignty, democracy, equality, justice, tolerance and non-discrimination. These founding principles were faithfully upheld by our forefathers under the dynamic leadership of Quaid-e-Azam during the glorious struggle that led to the establishment of Pakistan. Since its establishment, Pakistan has faced several challenges. Each time it has emerged more resilient and stronger after successfully dealing with these challenges. As in the past, our nation is determined to tackle the challenges we face today and is determined as ever to protect our sovereignty and independence as well as sustain Pakistan's social and economic development. On this occasion, I also wish to acknowledge the valuable contribution of the vibrant and dynamic Pakistan community in Saudi Arabia. The 2.5 million resilient Pakistani community in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has contributed and will continue to contribute to the socio-economic development of Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The Consulate General of Pakistan, Jeddah, has always made efforts to provide the best possible consular and welfare services to all members of our industrious community. We are planning several initiatives to further improve these services at the Consulate. I am sure that the cooperation and support of Pakistanis in the Kingdom will remain available to us in this endeavor. Taking this opportunity, I would assure my dearest fellow Pakistanis residing in Western region of the fullest cooperation and attention of the Consulate and would like to urge them to work with commitment and devotion towards the economic and social development of the Kingdom and contribute to further strengthen and deepen strategic relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Long live Pakistan Long live Pakistan-Saudi Arabia friendship Shehryar Akbar Khan Consul General of Islamic Republic of Pakistan
