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Community Corner

Pakistan Day is observed in Chicago with traditional fervor.

Pakistani community in Chicago celebrated Pakistan Day with great fervor and enthusiasm.

To commemorate the 85th Pakistan Day, the Consulate General of Pakistan in Chicago held a grand reception at the Holiday Inn Oak Brook, Illinois. The event drew a sizable crowd of over 300 individuals including members of the Consular Corps, senior political officials, media, think tanks, and the Pakistani American community. U.S. Congressman Jonathan Jackson was the chief guest of the celebration.

Arshia Husnain was the program's host. Syed Abdan Ullah recited the Quran at the start of the program.
During his remarks, Consul General Tariq Karim congratulated the Pakistani American community on a prosperous and happy Pakistan Day. He highlighted the valiant battle for Pakistan and praised the nation's father, Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and other leaders and activists of the Pakistan Movement for their tireless efforts and incalculable sacrifices. Additionally, he conveyed Pakistan's unwavering support for the legal and legitimate fight for the right to self-determination by the oppressed IIOJK people. Additionally, he conveyed the felicitations of Pakistan's Foreign Minister, President, and Prime Minister.
According to the Consul General of Pakistan, Pakistan has made great progress on a number of fronts over the past 78 years, overcoming many challenges. He underlined that Pakistan's strategic location, demographic dividend, large market, democratic mindset, wealth of natural and human resources, rapid growth of the tech sector, and relaxed investment rules make it a desirable destination for business and investment. He also emphasized Pakistan's attractiveness as a vacation spot, offering visitors a wide range of attractions. He said that the administration was making a number of adjustments to address macroeconomic problems. He also emphasized Pakistan's efforts to empower minorities and women.
The consul general highlighted the value of the long-standing friendship between the United States and Pakistan. He briefed on a variety of bilateral relations-related subjects, including the growing volume of trade and the successful operations of US corporations in Pakistan.

Pakistan's relationship with the Midwest is becoming stronger because of increased trade, investment, and personal contacts, according to Consul General Tariq Karim, who also stated his primary objectives and intentions. He added that there were several Midwest merchants carrying Pakistani products and that Pakistan exports had increased dramatically. During his briefing, he discussed the growing investments the Midwest is making in Pakistan, especially in the IT sector.

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The consul general stressed the importance of the Pakistani American community in bridging divides and advancing the socioeconomic development of both nations. According to him, community members have not only achieved professional success but have also made important contributions to the advancement of American culture, technology, and the economy.

In his heartfelt wishes on Pakistan Day, Congressman Jonathan Jackson recognized the significance of Ramadan and the role performed by the Pakistani American community. State Representative Diane Blair-Sherlock, Bolingbrook Mayor Basta, and DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick were among the dignitaries and elected officials that spoke at the ceremony. In a proclamation sent to the consul general on behalf of the people of Illinois, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias recognized the significance of Pakistan Day. Congratulations were also conveyed by a number of luminaries, including Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, Wisconsin State Representative Samba Baldeh, and Congressman Sean Casten. Among other things, these remarks acknowledged the value of bilateral ties and the contribution made by the Pakistani American community.

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Pakistan Day cake-cutting was done by Congressman Jonathan Jackson, Consul General Tariq Karim, and his wife and others join together.
During a short cultural session, patriotic national songs from Pakistan were sung. After Iftar, traditional Pakistani cuisine was served to the visitors. At the end of the ceremony, prayers were offered for the prosperity and well-being of Pakistan, its citizens, and its community members.

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