On the auspicious occasion of the 66th Independence Day of Pakistan, I wish to extend my heartiest felicitations to the Pakistani community in Saudi Arabia. This day has a special significance for the people of Pakistan. On this day in 1947, which also happened to be the 27th of Ramadan, Almighty Allah blessed the Muslims of South Asia with a separate homeland where they could lead their lives according to their faith and aspirations. Today, Pakistan is a strong, resilient and independent Islamic State. It has been blessed with all the fundamentals of a strong state: A democratic government, independent judiciary, thriving and free media, and dynamic civil society. Our large pool of trained and experienced engineers, doctors, bankers, lawyers and other professionals is an asset not only for Pakistan but for the entire Ummah and international community. Pakistan is also an important member of the global community today. We are at the forefront of the global efforts for the maintenance of peace and security in the world. As a frontline state in the fight against terror, we have paid a heavy price in terms of loss of precious lives and billions of dollars to the economy. Thousands of our innocent people and valiant soldiers have laid down their lives in the noble cause. We are also one of the largest contributors to the United Nations' peacekeeping forces around the globe. I am sure that Pakistani community in the Kingdom shares my sense of pride in our special relationship with Saudi Arabia. Based on the solid foundations of Islamic identity, shared historical heritage and commonality of perceptions on all national and international issues, these relations continue to gain strength with each passing day. The relationship is nurtured by the special love and reverence that the people of Pakistan have for Saudi Arabia, the holy land. The government and people of Pakistan also have profound love and respect for King Abdullah, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, Crown Prince Salman, Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister, the royal family and the government and people of Saudi Arabia. The Government of Pakistan is truly proud of the contributions made by the Pakistan community in the kingdom toward its progress and prosperity. With its untiring hard work, supreme dedication and endless love for Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, the Pakistani expatriate community has functioned as a strong bond between the two countries. I am confident that the relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will continue to grow by leaps and bounds in the coming years. LONG LIVE PAKISTAN LONG LIVE PAKISTAN-SAUDI ARABIA FRIENDSHIP Muhammad Naeem Khan Ambassador of Pakistan
