Pakistan National Day Celebrations on 23 March 2015

To mark the Pakistan National Day, the High Commissioner hosted a reception at the Wellington Club on 23 March 2015. Ms. Lucy Duncan, Group Manager, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade represented the Government of New Zealand on the occasion. The Reception was attended by Members of New Zealand parliament, government officials, scholars, journalists, members of diplomatic corps and Pakistani community. Ms. Annette King, Deputy Leader of the Labour Party and Lt. General Tim Keating, Chief of the New Zealand Defence Force were among the prominent guests.

The High Commissioner welcomed and thanked the distinguished guests for their presence on the occasion. She said Pakistan and New Zealand enjoy friendly and cordial relations and highlighted significant developments in recent years.

Ms. Lucy Duncan said, “the event today is another example of the longstanding and warm friendship between New Zealand and Pakistan”.

Earlier, a simple and dignified flag hoisting ceremony was held in the morning at the Pakistan High Commission. A cross section of Pakistani community living in Wellington and adjoining city Palmerston North attended the event. The High Commissioner highlighted the significance of the day and underlined that the democratic Government in Pakistan is working for economic and social growth and making determined efforts to defeat the forces of extremism. She also acknowledged the contribution made by Pakistanis living in New Zealand and their support provided to the High Commission.

Wellington

23 March 2015