Islamabad:On the occasion of Pakistan’s 77th Independence Day, the “Emirates Loves Pakistan” event drew over 10,000 attendees. Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, the event was marked by elaborate celebrations and a strong emphasis on the enduring bond between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Pakistan.
The event was graced by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE’s Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, who attended alongside Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, and several distinguished dignitaries and diplomats.
Sheikh Nahyan highlighted the deep-rooted relationship between the UAE and Pakistan, emphasizing their mutual commitment to nurturing and strengthening these ties. He noted that their cultural, political, commercial, and people-to-people connections are deeply intertwined, providing a robust foundation for their relationship now and in the future.
Sheikh Nahyan affirmed the shared values and beliefs that underpin the close relationship between the two countries. He expressed pride in presenting hope and optimism for both nations on this special occasion, while celebrating the contributions of the Pakistani community in the UAE’s development.
The event showcased Pakistan’s rich cultural diversity through traditional music, dance performances, and exhibitions of Pakistani crafts. It also celebrated the role of the Pakistani community in the UAE’s growth, including their efforts towards sustainable development.
Alia Al Hamadi, Deputy Chairperson of the UAE Government Media Office, emphasized that the celebration reflects the deep historical ties and strategic partnership between the UAE and Pakistan. She highlighted the cooperation in various sectors, noting the UAE’s desire to support sustainable development in Pakistan through significant projects.
Several prominent Pakistani figures were honored during the event:
– **Dr. Faisal Ikram**, President of the Pakistan Association Dubai, was recognized for his efforts in establishing a major community center for overseas Pakistanis.
– **Dr. Yaarjan Abdul Samad**, Assistant Professor in Aerospace Engineering at Khalifa University and Senior Research Associate at the University of Cambridge, was celebrated for his research in graphene and 2D materials.
– **Chef Chaudhry Abdul Hamid**, founder of the renowned Ravi Restaurant, was acknowledged for his exceptional culinary contributions.
– **Mudassar Sheikh**, co-founder of Kareem, was praised for revolutionizing the transportation sector in the region.
– **Yahya Jan**, President and Design Director of NORR, was honored for his contributions to architecture, including the design of the upcoming tallest hotel, the Ciel Tower.
Notable Pakistani athletes were also recognized:
– **Naila Kiani**, the first Pakistani woman to summit 11 of the 14 highest peaks above 8,000 meters, and the third Pakistani overall to achieve this feat.
– **Shahid Afridi**, honored for his record-breaking achievements and philanthropic work.
– **Jahangir Khan**, the squash champion, and **Shahbaz Ahmed**, the hockey star, were both celebrated for their outstanding sports careers.
The UAE and Pakistan share a long-standing relationship, strengthened by strategic partnerships and growing economic ties. Since the era of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in 1971, the UAE has been a major supporter of Pakistan’s development. Recently, the UAE committed $10 billion to promising sectors in Pakistan, underscoring the continuing investment and support in their bilateral relationship.
