Oslo:To mark the 75th anniversary of Independence Day of Pakistan, a colourful flag hoisting ceremony was held at the Chancery with great zeal and fervor.
Ambassador Babar Amin raised the National Flag to the tune of National Anthem. Messages of the President and the Prime Minister were read out on the occasion. A large number of diaspora from various walks of life including politicians, media, attended the ceremony.
A group of Pakistani-Norwegian youth in the traditional folk costumes of Pakistani provinces and regions presenting cultural display of the beautiful and diverse Pakistan walked to main venue of flag hoisting. The children also performed on native regional songs in traditional regional attire to the huge applause of the guests.
Pakistani organizations Hum Sab Ka Pakistan, Urdu Skole and Bjorndal helgskole coordinated the youth’s performance.
In his remark, Ambassador Babar Amin shed light about the history, enriched by the multi-cultural diversity, art, literature, knowledge, and sagacity of all these regions. On the issue of Jammu and Kashmir, he drew the attention towards atrocities and human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) that have reached unprecedented levels. The Ambassador expressed its gratitude to the organizers, students and teachers for their outstanding performances.
The Embassy arranged setting up of various stalls by Pakistani community where Pakistani cuisines, clothes, jewellery etc. were showcased.
At the end, in recognition of the performances, achievement certificates were awarded.