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FLAG HOISTING CEREMONY ON PAKISTAN DAY IN PARIS

EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN, PARIS, FRANCE

(INFORMATION SECTION)

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SUBJECT: FLAG HOISTING CEREMONY ON PAKISTAN DAY IN PARIS

 A flag hoisting ceremony was held at the Embassy of Pakistan Paris to commemorate the Pakistan Day. The event was attended by a large number of Pakistani diaspora, members of diplomatic corps, media representatives and officials of the Embassy.

Messages of the President, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister were read out.

The Ambassador of Pakistan Asim Iftikhar Ahmad welcomed the guests and thanked them for being part of the ceremony. In his remarks, the Ambassador said that on this day in 1940, the Muslims put forward their demand for a “separate state”, a separate homeland where they could live their lives in accordance with their aspirations. Elaborating further he said that 23 March was a landmark day in the history of Pakistan movement.  It is the day of honoring the valiant struggle of our forefathers for a separate homeland – a struggle that was provided with a direction and momentum that began with the historic Lahore Resolution of 1940,  later named as the Pakistan Resolution. It was a great demonstration of vision by the Muslims of the sub-continent as this Resolution brought them together with extraordinary courage and zeal to strive for a separate homeland and freedom that was archived in a short span of seven years.

While addressing the guests the Ambassador said that it was the under the visionary leadership of the Father of The Nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and sacrifices made by his companions that multiple odds were overcome to make Pakistan possible and the dream of Allama Dr. Muhammad Iqbal became a reality.

The Ambassador added that while we celebrate Pakistan Day, we should not forget that the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK) are enduring the worst form of repression and state-sponsored terrorism at the hands of Indian occupation forces, aggravated by the Hindutva agenda and the unilateral actions of August 2019. The key to durable peace in South Asia is the resolution of the dispute in accordance with the United Nations Security Council Resolutions (UNSC). Pakistan, on its part, stands committed to extending all possible support until the realization of right to self-determination of the Kashmiri people.

The Ambassador also expressed strong support for Palestinian people who are facing injustice, oppression and illegal occupation for seven decades at the hands of the Israeli Defense Forces. Pakistan remains steadfast in its principled support for the establishment of an independent, viable, and contiguous state of Palestine, based on the pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

The Ambassador highlighted the importance of Pakistan-France friendship and said that both countries share the objective development, peace and security. He added that relations between France and Pakistan have a positive momentum and the two sides have been getting closer not only through political consultations but also through economic activities. A great deal of focus has been placed to enhance cooperation in energy, IT, agriculture and livestock, tourism, and other sectors.

He appreciated the Pakistani community living in France for their achievements and contributions towards strengthening Pak-France ties particularly people to people relationships. He lauded the compatriots as Ambassador of Pakistan and an invaluable asset, committed to the ideals of the founding fathers to attain glory for Pakistan by embracing the values of hard work, integrity, and compassion.

Later, the guests enjoyed poetry and tableau performance by Pakistani children at the occasion.

A ceremony was also held on the occasion to bestow Pakistan Civil Award Tamgha-e-Imtiaz on Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad for outstanding public service. The award had been announced by the President of Pakistan on August 14, 2023.

PARIS: March 23, 2024

23 March 2024 in Announcements, Latest news

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY CELEBRATED AT EMBASSY

EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN, PARIS, FRANCE
(INFORMATION SECTION)

Subject: INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY CELEBRATED AT EMBASSY

PARIS: 12 March 2024

The Embassy of Pakistan, in collaboration with Zonta International Paris, co-organized a special event to celebrate the International Women’s Day. A large number of people from all walks of life including the diplomatic community, prominent representatives of the government, UNESCO, international institutions, civil society and media participated. Members of Pakistan-France Senate Friendship Group, Senator Vivette Lopez and Pierre Cuyper also attended.

In his remarks, Ambassador/Permanent Delegate Asim Iftikhar Ahmad highlighted the vital role of women in Pakistan’s independence and national development and paid tribute to their remarkable accomplishments in diverse fields over the years. Providing a historical perspective, the Ambassador also threw light on the central place of women in Islam that also provided an advanced and ahead of time framework of fundamental human rights including the rights of women. He also underlined Pakistan’s strong commitment to continue to strive for gender equality in all aspects of life and to provide an enabling environment for every girl and woman to achieve her full potential. Describing education as a key enabler, the Ambassador underscored the importance of partnerships including with the civil society to promote shared objectives. He also lauded the work of women officers spearheading various wings of the Embassy as a practical manifestation of government’s affirmative action for gender equality and representation.

A detailed presentation showcasing successful Pakistani girls and women from all walks of life throughout Pakistan’s history was also delivered during the event, reaffirming Pakistan’s solemn commitment to continue promoting women empowerment and gender equality across the board.

Assistant Director-General for Education Ms. Stefania Giannini highlighted the role of UNESCO in promoting SDG-4 Education globally. She also mentioned the Malala Funds in Trust Girls’ Right to Education Program as a successful role model of partnership between Pakistan, UNESCO other partners for promoting girls’ education in Pakistan and several other countries.

President of the Zonta Club presented the vision and activities of the organization for education, visibility and promotion of women and girls.
Recorded video messages from Ms. Sania Nishtar, CEO, GAVI and Ms. Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs were also played.

Three outstanding Pakistani-French women Tabassum Saleem (civil service), Naghmana Kiani (social service) and Shaaz Malik (poet/writer) also shared their views on the occasion.

The event was part of the Embassy’s program to mark the International Women’s Day coinciding with the Pakistan Day celebrations in March and was an excellent opportunity to inform the French audience of the tremendous achievements and important role of women in Pakistan.

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13 March 2024 in Announcements, Latest news, Press Releases

Pakistan Embassy in France Hosts Christmas Dinner

EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN, PARIS, FRANCE
(INFORMATION SECTION)

PRESS RELEASE

PARIS: December 22, 2023

A Christmas Dinner was hosted at the Embassy of Pakistan, Paris on December 21, 2023. Ambassador of Pakistan Asim Iftikhar Ahmad welcomed the guests and thanked them for being part of the celebrations. He said that this coming together of people from different faiths, nationalities and backgrounds, is what makes this celebration of Xmas special.

He said that Christmas is a time of happiness, celebration, sharing and remembrance. More importantly it reminds us of the message of Jesus Christ – message of peace tolerance and compassion for everyone around the world. He added that by celebrating DIVERSITY – we promote harmony and tolerance – as this is a mosaic of our modern states, our societies and the global community.

The Ambassador further highlighted that it is the same message of peace common to all divine religions including that of Islam and our Prophet Muhammad’s (p.b.u.h.) universal teachings reflect the same. It goes without saying how important and relevant this universal message remains for the entire humanity today, he added. We are committed to promote harmony, ensure fundamental rights and equal opportunities for all Pakistanis as equal citizens as guided by the vision of our Founding Father – Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

The Ambassador appreciated the contributions of the Pakistani Christian community both in Pakistan and abroad where they are the key pillars of Pakistani diaspora. The Christian community remain proud contributors towards the establishment of Pakistan going back to 1947 – and decades of nation building ever since. They are and will always remain an essential and integral part of our multicultural society.

While outlining the active role of Pakistan at the international level the Ambassador duly recognized many friends who have over the years worked with Pakistan in building bridges across nations and civilizations.

The Ambassador also shared that the UN General Assembly had recently unanimously adopted the traditional resolution jointly presented by the Philippines and Pakistan on the “Promotion of inter-religious and inter cultural dialogue, understanding and cooperation for peace”.

The Christmas Dinner was attended by large number of French friends and families, Pakistani Christian community, diplomats and people from all walks of life. Guests were treated with traditional Pakistani food while goody bags brought more smiles to the children.

The officers and staff of the Embassy also attended the event marking Christmas celebrations.

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22 December 2023 in Announcements, Latest news, Press Releases

NADRA PARTICIPATES IN TRUSTECH EXHIBITION IN PARIS

EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN, PARIS, FRANCE

PRESS RELEASE

 

PARIS: NOVEMBER 28, 2023

PAKISTAN’S STORY: FROM FAMILY TREE TO DIGITAL SUCCESSION WITH PAKISTAN’S ID SYSTEM

Lieutenant General Muhammad Munir Afsar, Chairman of the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) is representing Pakistan at a 3-day exhibition of TRUSTECH 2023 which opened today in Paris and will continue till November 30, 2023.

In his speech before TRUSTECH audience, the Chaiman NADRA highlighted the evolving role of NADRA since its establishment in 2000 and briefed all about the accomplishments of the organization inclusive of ID documents (national identity card, overseas card; etc.), financial systems (mobile/branch-less banking, remittances, pension disbursement; etc.), e-governance (online visa, taxation system, e-passport, legal inheritance; etc.), health & education (vaccination system, scholarship programs; etc.) and social protection (disaster relief programs, subsidy programs; etc.).

The Chairman further briefed that numerous countries have benefitted from the services of NADRA in their journey of digital transformation. He said that NADRA’s clients are able to make use of customized solutions together with complete transfer of technology – building trust and mutual learning.

The Ambassador of Pakistan to France Asim Iftikhar Ahmad visited the pavilion of NADRA set up at TRUSTECH exhibition where he was briefed by the Chairman NADRA on the ‘solutions & services for digital transformation’ undertaken by his organization. While referring to NADRA’s work as ‘empowerment through identity” the Ambassador praised the new services being introduced by NADRA especially its mobile app facility. The Ambassador took round of the exhibition and interacted with various exhibitors from different countries.

TRUSTECH is the annual meeting place for professionals of the Cards and Digital Trust technologies industries, attracting visitors from across the globe. The 39th edition of TRUSTECH exhibition in Paris has brought in to spotlight representatives from tech, smart card and innovative payment industries, as well as financial and governmental institutions. The said exhibition provides an opportunity to the exhibitors, sponsors and startups to exchange views on their latest innovations.

During the three days – the exhibition will hold 70 conferences featuring over 100 international experts with almost 200 exhibitors and 6,500 professionals from 92 countries. It is expected that 80% of visitors will be attending TRUSTECH exhibition with specific investment projects in mind.

The participation of Pakistan in this exhibition will provide NADRA with an excellent opportunity to hold important meetings with various stakeholders and will likely open new vistas for its growth and development in future.

Earlier Chairman NADRA Lieutenant General Muhammad Munir Afsar visited the Embassy of Pakistan and appreciated its role regarding efficient delivery mechanism adopted for the online visa facility to the Pakistani diaspora and others.

The officers of the Embassy were also present at the occasion.

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29 November 2023 in Latest news, Non classé, Press Releases

Pakistan re-elected to UNESCO Executive Board for 2023-2027

Embassy of Pakistan

Paris, France

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Press Release

Pakistan re-elected to UNESCO Executive Board for 2023-2027

Pakistan was re-elected today to the Executive Board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for the term 2023-2027. Pakistan wishes to thank Member States for their support and the confidence reposed in its candidature. It is a matter of immense pride to have been entrusted with the responsibility to serve on the Executive Board. Pakistan will avail this opportunity to continue to contribute to the policymaking, development of norms, advancement of global priorities, and effective oversight of programs and activities of the Organization.

Pakistan values the ever-relevant and crucial role of UNESCO as a universal forum to promote the intellectual and moral solidarity of mankind and advancement of global peace and development through education, science, culture and communication. As an ardent advocate of multilateralism, Pakistan will endeavour to strengthen our collective efforts at UNESCO, including by building bridges across regions and forging consensus on key issues for tangible outcomes and impact on ground. As a partner, Pakistan will continue to extend proactive support for the SIDS Operational Strategy and Global Priorities – Africa and Gender Equality.

Pakistan’s re-election is a testament to its longstanding support for and constructive role at the United Nations. Pakistan will continue to work with all Member States to strengthen UNESCO’s mandate and advance our shared goals.

Paris, 15 November 2023

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16 November 2023 in Announcements, Latest news, Press Releases

Independence Day Celebrations

Embassy of Pakistan

France

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Press Release

Independence Day Celebrations

Paris: August 14, 2023

An impressive flag hoisting ceremony at the Embassy of Pakistan marked the 76th Independence Day celebrations in France. Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad raised the Pakistani flag to the tune of the national anthem in the presence of distinguished members of the community, Embassy officials, friends and families including a large number of children. The messages of the President and the Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out on the occasion.

Congratulating the compatriots on the Independence Day, the Ambassador noted that such occasions were not only joyous but momentous as they provided the link between the past, present and the future, and thus an opportunity for collective national reflection.

It was the visionary leadership and indefatigable efforts of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah that led to an independent homeland for Muslims, underlined the Ambassador while paying tribute to the Father of the Nation and other leaders of the freedom movement. He also paid homage to the immense sacrifice of our forefathers for the creation of Pakistan. That spirit of sacrifice continues to inspire the succeeding generations who have made the defence and security of Pakistan impregnable and one of the best in the world.

Appreciating the tremendous capabilities and hard work of Pakistani men and women, the Ambassador recalled how in the face of enormous challenges and lack of resources, the young nation had made great strides in all fields.

Also at the international stage, Pakistan held an important place among the comity of nations, playing its due role for the promotion of regional and global peace and development. Pakistan enjoys close cooperative relations with a wide circle of friends and partners around the world, including France.

Ambassador Ahmad emphasized that while celebrating independence, it was also our duty to reiterate our firm commitment and all out support to our Kashmiri brothers and sisters to realize their right to self-determination and freedom from illegal Indian occupation.

Going forward, the entire nation must work together – in unity, faith and discipline – for a stronger, prosperous and democratic Pakistan for our future generations to fully realize their aspirations. Pakistan was a gift of Allah for which we are thankful, and would safeguard this trust with utmost responsibility, stressed the Ambassador.

In this regard the Ambassador lauded the role and services of overseas Pakistanis and hoped that the dynamic Pakistani community in France will continue to contribute to strengthening Pak-France relations and bring more laurels to their motherland. He also praised the role of women and youth in national development.

The colourful Independence Day program included national songs, speeches and captivating tableau by children. The guests also enjoyed national songs and traditional Pakistani food.

The Ambassador also presented letters of appreciation to Pakistani poets and authors based in France in recognition of their recently published works in Urdu and Punjabi.

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14 August 2023 in Announcements, Latest news, Press Releases

Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir observed in Paris

Embassy of Pakistan

(France)

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Press Release

Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir observed in Paris

Paris; August 5, 2023

Embassy of Pakistan organized a seminar here today to observe Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir.

Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad underscored the significance of this day, commemorating four years since August 5, 2019, when India took illegal and unilateral actions, in violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir and international law, with the aim of altering the internationally recognized disputed status of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

Pakistan and the international community joined the Kashmiris in raising a unified voice and unequivocally rejecting India’s attempts to change the demographic structure of the occupied territory in contravention of the UNSC resolutions and the 4th Geneva Convention. The Ambassador emphasized that India’s sinister designs and perpetration of grave human rights violations to suppress the spirit of the Kashmiri people and undermine their legitimate right to self-determination had utterly failed.

Paying tribute to the sacrifices of the Kashmiri people, the Ambassador admired their unwavering commitment and strong determination to continue their rightful struggle for self-determination and freedom from Indian occupation. He lauded that despite India’s relentless repression, including extra-judicial killings, severe restrictions on freedom of speech, fake encounters, cordon-and-search operations, custodial torture and deaths, enforced disappearances, incarceration of Kashmiri leaders and youth, use of pellet guns, destruction of homes, and other oppressive methods, the brave and resilient Kashmiri people remained resolute.

The Ambassador deliberated on the political, legal, peace and security, humanitarian and human rights dimensions of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute between India and Pakistan, that remains on the agenda of the UN Security Council since 1948. It was high time for the international community to play its role in resolving the dispute in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people. The Government and people of Pakistan stand in complete solidarity with the people of IIOJK and will continue to extend all possible support for the realization of their right to self-determination. He emphasized that India must stop human rights violations and reverse the illegal actions of August 5, 2019 and all subsequent measures to create an environment for meaningful dialogues to resolve the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.

During the seminar, various speakers strongly condemned the Indian government’s unlawful actions and the increased and widespread violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in IIOJK, particularly since August 5, 2019, and expressed their unwavering support and solidarity to the Kashmiri people in their just struggle.

A compelling documentary highlighting the atrocities committed in IIOJK was screened and messages from the President, Prime Minister, and Foreign Minister were read out, affirming Pakistan’s support for the Kashmir cause.

As part of the commemoration, an exhibition of photographs and illustrations was organized at the chancery, that showcased powerful images depicting the Kashmiri struggle against the Indian military siege and the atrocities committed in IIOJK.

Earlier a webinar was held in connection with Youm-e-Istehsal in which Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad also participated. Speakers condemned India’s illegal and unilateral actions of August 5, 2019 and  grave violations of HR in IIOJK. They expressed unanimous support for Kashmiris right to self-determination in accordance with UNSC resolutions.

Subsequently, members of the Pakistani and Kashmiri communities organized a protest rally near the iconic Eiffel Tower. During the rally, speakers strongly condemned the Indian government’s human rights violations and illegal actions in IIOJK and called for resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in line with the resolutions and wishes of the Kashmiri people.

The protestors fervently raised slogans against the forced occupation of IIOJK, while brandishing placards, banners, and Kashmiri flags, symbolizing their unwavering support for the Kashmir cause.

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5 August 2023 in Latest news, Press Releases