PAKISTAN DAY MESSAGE

BY

AMBASSADOR JEHANGIR KARAMAT

(23rd March, 2006)

As the Ambassador of Pakistan in the United States, it is a privilege and honor for me to address the Pakistani community on Pakistan Day – the 23rd of March 2006.

This is a historic day. On this day in 1940 the Muslims of South Asia resolved to establish a separate homeland for themselves. Pakistan became a reality and today it has a proud place among the nations of the world.

This year we are reminded of the earthquake last October and the many people who suffered in that terrible tragedy. The Pakistan community in the United States responded generously and joined their brethren in Pakistan to help the victims of the disaster. We are proud of you and thank you for your tremendous response.

The Pakistani-American community is actively contributing to the economic and social progress in Pakistan. Our community also works tirelessly to project a positive image of Pakistan and promote close, friendly and cooperative ties between the United States and Pakistan. I have no doubt that this effort will continue in the future.

Pakistan Paindabad.