Abidjan: The Embassy of Pakistan in Abidjan hosted an event to celebrate “Iqbal Day” in honor of the 147th birth anniversary of Allama Muhammad Iqbal. Members from the Pakistani community attended the occasion. The program commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran. Ambassador Mahmood Akhtar Mahmood, in his address, emphasized the philosophy of the Poet of the East, which played a pivotal role in the political awakening of Muslims in the subcontinent. He stated that Allama Iqbal instilled a spirit among Muslims to seek their true identity and to explore and affirm the concept of “khudi” for both individual and collective advancement and prosperity. Iqbal’s poetry conveys a universal message, expressing his desire for the betterment of all humanity.

According to Press Information Department, Ambassador Mahmood further noted that Allama Iqbal envisioned a separate homeland for Muslims of the subcontinent during the Allahabad session in 1930, a vision that materialized on August 14, 1947. He highlighted the universal appeal of Iqbal’s works, which are recognized and appreciated worldwide. There is a pressing need to return to Iqbal’s teachings and philosophy to address the contemporary challenges facing modern societies, particularly within Muslim communities. The event concluded with special prayers for Allama Iqbal. Refreshments were served at the end of the event.