By Ramatoulie Jawo
Pakistan Day, celebrated annually on March 23, marks the Lahore Resolution of 1940, a pivotal event that led to the creation of Pakistan.
A modest ceremony took place on Saturday at the consulate office in Jimpex to mark Pakistan National Day in The Gambia. Members of the Pakistani community and embassy officials participated in the event, reflecting on the achievements and sacrifices of their ancestors in the struggle for independence.
Addressing the gathering, the Honorary Consul General of Pakistan in The Gambia, Kebba K Krubally, emphasized the significance of the day as a time to set new goals and strengthen business ties between the two nations.
“With this, let us treasure our accomplishments for the previous months and use it to set new standards to a higher level,” he said.
He expressed sincere appreciation to the Pakistani Community, as well as their esteemed Gambian hosts, who have gathered with them for this commemoration. Their presence serves as a testament to the enduring bonds of friendship and collaboration between our nations.
Ambassador Lang Yabou, Permanent Secretary 1 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that celebrating our national day prompts reflection, underscoring the strong bilateral ties between the Gambia and Pakistan.
“As we celebrate this day it is not different the people of Pakistan and their friends around the world are reflecting on their journey to nationhood and how far they have come since attaining independence,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of the bilateral ties between The Gambia and Pakistan, he underscored that both nations, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and The Gambia, share a strong friendship and are members of various international organizations.
“Just to name a few, the commonwealth, the Islamic OIC, which is the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, The United Nations, and other organizations that we mutually believe and share the same Goals, and as they celebrate their Day it is, therefore, befitting that I come here on behalf of the honorable minister who was supposed to be here but because he is on state duties outside the country,” he said.
He mentioned that collaboration between their nations has extended across both multilateral and bilateral platforms, citing instances such as Gambian students and defense forces receiving education and training in Pakistan. Emphasizing the significance of this partnership, he expressed optimism that the establishment of their consulate in the Gambia would foster further growth, particularly in trade relations.
Mr. Muhammad Ousman, the President of the Pakistani Community in the Gambia, urged fellow Pakistanis to serve as ambassadors for their country. He emphasized the importance of contributing to the advancement and prosperity of both nations.
Describing the Gambia as a welcoming and peaceful nation, he expressed gratitude for the warm reception they’ve received from the Gambian people, whom they consider as extended family.