Consulate General of Pakistan hosts flag ceremony at Daley Plaza

The Consulate General of Pakistan in Chicago hosted a dignified event at Daley Center Plaza, a prominent square in downtown Chicago, to mark the 77th anniversary of Pakistan's Independence. Mr. Tariq Karim, Consul General of Pakistan in Chicago, hoisted the Pakistan flag at the Plaza. The event was attended by a large gathering of Pakistani American community members representing diverse segments of society, along with a significant number of locals and members of the Consular Corps. Ms. Arshia Husnain was the Host of the Program. Talawat-e-Quran performed by Syed Abdan Ullah

As a special gesture, Mayor of Chicago honorable Brandon Johnson participated in the Independence Day event as the Chief Guest. Other elected officials attending the event included Congressman Danny Davis, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, Bolingbrook Mayor Mary-Alexander Basta, and Glendale Heights Mayor Chaudhry Asif Khokhar.
In his remarks, Mayor Brandon Johnson extended his warm greetings to the Pakistani-American community while recognizing their tremendous contribution in shaping the diverse and vibrant fabric of Chicago. He stated that Chicago and Pakistan share a long history of friendship and cooperation.
In his address, Consul General Tariq Karim warmly felicitated the Pakistani-American community on Independence Day, underlining the historical significance of the occasion. He stated that, despite various challenges, Pakistan has achieved many milestones in the last 77 years. He emphasized that Pakistan's geographic location, demographic dividend, market size, rich human and natural resources, growing tech ecosystem, and liberal investment policies have made Pakistan an important economic and transit hub and investment destination in the world. He also highlighted Pakistan as a tourist destination, offering a wide range of sites for visitors. The Consul General also emphasized the steps taken by Pakistan to empower women and minorities. Drawing the attention of the international community to the plight of the oppressed people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK), he reaffirmed Pakistan's support for their legitimate struggle for the right to self-determination.
The Consul General stressed the significance of the longstanding partnership between Pakistan and the United States, highlighting immense potential for further enhancing their relationship in diverse fields. He noted that Pakistan’s partnership with the Midwest regions was growing, with an increase in trade, investment, and people-to-people contacts. He said the participation of the Mayor of Chicago and other senior elected officials in the Independence Day celebration reflected strong bonds of friendship.
Consul General Tariq Karim lauded the contribution made by the vibrant Pakistani American community to the socio-economic development of both countries and their role as bridge-builders. Recalling Quaid's principles of Unity, Faith, and Discipline, he urged community members to renew their commitment to Pakistan and continue to play an active role in promoting Pak-U.S. relations.
Consul General Tariq Karim and Mayor Brandon Johnson also cut the Pakistan Independence Day Cake.
Messages of greetings were received from a number of dignitaries, including U.S. Congressman Sean Casten, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, and Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul.
The event featured cultural performances, including national songs by Pakistani singers, engaging the audience in spirited celebrations of Pakistan's Independence Day.
In addition to the event organized by the Consulate General, the Pakistani American community hosted a series of events to celebrate Independence Day in Chicago and across the Midwest region, which were also attended by the Consul General.