Abu Dhabi: The Pakistani diaspora in the United Arab Emirates celebrated Pakistan’s Independence Day with a profound sense of patriotism and national pride. Ceremonies were held at the Pakistani Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Consulate in Dubai, attracting families from across the emirates.

Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, led the celebrations by hoisting the national flag at the embassy in Abu Dhabi. The event was attended by community members who gathered to honor the national day.

In his address, Ambassador Tirmizi emphasized the enduring values of unity, faith, and discipline as essential for guiding Pakistan’s future. He highlighted the country’s resilience and unity in overcoming challenges and celebrated recent achievements in national defense.

Ambassador Tirmizi underscored the significant role of the Pakistani diaspora in fostering ties between Pakistan and the UAE. He noted their contribution of $7.9 billion in remittances last year and acknowledged their vital role in the UAE’s development.

In a bid to enhance services, the ambassador announced the launch of an online passport and National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP) tracking system, praising the mission’s IT team for their innovative approach.

Additionally, the ambassador revealed efforts to expand educational opportunities, with more Pakistani private schools being invited to establish branches in the UAE, ensuring better access to quality and affordable education.

The celebrations reached a historic peak with a grand gathering earlier this month at Dubai Expo City, which drew an estimated 60,000 community members, marking a significant milestone in the diaspora’s engagement with national events.