Press Release

The Embassy of Pakistan celebrated Pakistan's Independence Day on August 14. On this occasion, Mr. Mohammad Sadiq, Charge d'Affaires, a.i. hoisted the flag and read out the Independence Day messages of the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan.

The Embassy also hosted its August 14 Student Awareness Night. The evening was kicked off by an awards ceremony honoring the winners of the Embassy's Independence Day student essay contest, "Shaping the Future of Pakistan." Earning accolades were First Place Winner Momina Cheema of Duke University, and Second Place finisher Sahar Dan, with Third Place going to Ali Malik. Also earning distinction for his essay was Mubeen Malik, with Honorable Mention.

Following the awards ceremony, Mr. Mohammad Sadiq and filmmaker Mr. Akbar S. Ahmed delivered remarks introducing Mr. Ahmed.s acclaimed documentary, "Mr. Jinnah: The Making of Pakistan." After the screening of the film, Mr. Ahmed fielded questions from the students and dignitaries in attendance on the Quaid's life. Among those in attendance alongside the students were Assistant Secretary of State Christina Rocca, Ambassador John Monjo, Ambassador Robert Oakley, Ambassador Robin Raphel, Ambassador John McDonald and former Assistant Secretary of State Karl Inderfurth. Also present were Pakistani Senators Roshan Khursheed Bharucha and Akber Khwaja, National Assembly Members Omar Ghuman and Riffat Javaid Kahlon, and Provincial Assembly Members, Ghazala Asad, Qudsia Lodi, Sussui Palijo, Ruskhsana Raz and Rubina Zaffar Zehri.

Independence Day at the Embassy was capped off by dinner. As esteemed Pakistani painter Syed A. Wasif presented a delightful exhibition of his signature Mogul Miniatures in Marker Hall. The exhibition will continue until August 16.