ANAKRA, 14 August 2013:  The 67th Independence Day of Pakistan was commemorated at Pakistan Embassy Ankara today. The Ambassador of Pakistan H.E. Mr. Muhammad Haroon Shaukat unfurled the national flag on the tune of national anthem in presence of the Pakistani community and Embassy officials.  He read out the messages of the President and the Prime Minister on the occasion. 

The President of Pakistan Mr. Asif Ali Zardari in his message stated that the Independence Day celebrations this year have special significance as the nation is also celebrating peaceful democratic transition from one democracy to another. He urged the people of Pakistan to stand firm and united for safeguarding and strengthening democracy and to work collectively for a progressive, tolerant, moderate and pluralistic Pakistan as envisioned by our great leaders. 

Prime Minister of Pakistan Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif in his message said a new era of hope and optimism has dawned in the country with the inception of the present democratic government. Pakistan Muslim League, the founding party of Pakistan, believes that the well being and security of the country hinges on the continuation of democratic process and respect for the people’s rights. The present government is committed to eliminate hunger, unemployment and inflation so that there is prosperity in the country. The Premier’s message also renewed the commitment to weed out extremism and terrorism from the country with active support of the people of Pakistan.

Ambassador Haroon Shaukat later on briefed the Pakistani community about recent developments in Pakistan-Turkey relations. He said it is the strong desire of the new government to forge a strong strategic partnership with Turkey and especially for bringing a qualitative and quantitative change in our economic and commercial relations. Mutual and abiding goodwill between the two countries and success of recent projects such  as Metro Bus and Solid Waste Management in Lahore, wind energy in Sindh and numerous reconstruction and rehabilitation projects in earthquake and flood affected areas provide a solid foundation to enhance this cooperation. He hoped that such success stories would motivate entrepreneurs of both countries in diverse fields.  

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