Paris: On the occasion of Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day, Ambassador Mumtaz Zahra Baloch led a flag-hoisting ceremony at the Embassy of Pakistan in Paris, which was attended by a significant number of the Pakistani community, including children. The event also marked the 150th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan.

According to Press Information Department, the ceremony included the reading of messages from Pakistan’s President, Prime Minister, and Foreign Minister. Ambassador Baloch emphasized the importance of August 14 as a day to celebrate national achievements and to honor the sacrifices made by forefathers. The Government of Pakistan has declared 2026 the “Year of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah” to commemorate his birth anniversary. The Ambassador urged the nation to adhere to Jinnah’s principles of faith, unity, and discipline for a prosperous future.

She also highlighted the ongoing struggles of the Kashmiri and Palestinian people, reaffirming Pakistan’s support for their right to self-determination. Additionally, Ambassador Baloch praised the contributions of the Pakistani diaspora in France and assured continued support from the Embassy. The event concluded with the inauguration of a photo exhibition dedicated to Jinnah’s life and achievements, which attracted considerable interest, especially from the children present, who voiced patriotic slogans.