AS a Pakistani I remember seeing at least 55 national days before the commemoration of the present 70th. This time, besides the show of strength by our armed forces, backed by physical presence of our brotherly friends from China, Turkey and Saudi Arabia, well-organised parade did add fuel to patriotism in the hearts of common Pakistanis. Well done.

Another worth appreciating practice was the offer by the business community of special rebates of up to 23pc signifying the date of Pakistan Day, both independently and by way of advertisement and in collaboration with banks on the usage of credit cards at different outlets and eateries.

Sh. Wasim Ahmed

Islamabad

(2)

IT was heart-warming to note that throughout the March 23 ceremonies there was only the Pakistan flag. Pakistan appeared as one undiluted entity. This was a delight to notice and note. Whoever was behind the idea deserves a big ‘thank you’. If it was the government, it deserves a pat. If it was the people of Pakistan behind this, then there is hope for the future.

Ayaz Ahmad

Karachi

(3)

LIVING outside Pakistan one perhaps feels even more worried and attached to one’s country, particularly on special occasions. Like every year, we usually attend the Pakistan Day at the Pakistan Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya, but this time it wasn’t the case as there was no public ceremony organised by the high commission.

For the last many years, this day starts early in the morning with the flag-hoisting ceremony and the singing of the national anthem and later on listening to a few speeches on the occasion, meeting the Pakistan community, families, having tea with them and then a dinner in the evening which was for selected guests.

Pakistan embassies’ role generally all over the world is not popular at all. They are no different than other government departments. But there are two occasions when all our embassies get active, i.e. on March 23 and Aug 14.

It was, therefore, unfortunate our embassy in Kenya did not invite the small community of Pakistanis on this occasion. I would like to convey the message to our Foreign Office that this decision was negative. Other embassies organise business forums, carnivals to engage with the community and also promote their country products in local trade fairs. It is important that our embassy play an effective role and promote Pakistan’s image and the Pakistan community and increase bilateral relations and trade between Kenya and Pakistan.

Ziauddin Siddiqui

Nairobi, Kenya

Published in Dawn, March 25th, 2017