Pakistan Independence Day celebrations have started across Australia to mark the 72nd independence day of the South Asian nation.
Locals from across Australia gathered at a function organised by the Consulate General of Pakistan in Sydney.
Young and old all wearing green and white, kids wearing traditional dresses, waving national flags of Pakistan and crowd chanting 'Pakistan Zindabad' were some of the highlights of the day.
Consul General of Pakistan in Sydney, Abdul Majid Yousfani, hoisted the Pakistani flag to mark the Independence Day celebrations in Sydney.
Source: SBS
Mr Yousfani said that Independence Day reminds us of the visionary leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and his companions.
"Our country has continued to progress and prosper despite enormous challenges and is actively participating and contributing towards international peace and security.
Source: SBS
I am delighted to know that Pakistanis form an important segment of the society in Australia and that most of them and their next generation have made a great mark in the public and private sectors.
While celebrating this day with special enthusiasm, we should also reflect upon our achievements as well as failures and pledge to strive to turn the challenges into opportunities with unity, sincerity and integrity.
May Allah provide us with the strength to realize the objectives of creation of Pakistan and to strengthen and protect our country from external threats."
Major functions and community events are taking place in different cities in Australia.
Consul General of Pakistan in Sydney, Abdul Majid Yousfani speaking at Pakistan Independence Day event. Source: SBS
In Canberra, the national flag of Pakistan was hoisted in Pakistani High Commission in the capital.
Earlier in to the community in Australia, High Commissioner of Pakistan in Canberra, Mr Babar Amin, said that it is with great pride and joy that I convey warm greetings to my fellow Pakistanis in Australia, Fiji and Papua New Guinea.
"This day reminds us of the enormous sacrifices made by our illustrious forefathers to secure an independent homeland so we and our future generations could enjoy the blessings and bounties of freedom.
Overseas Pakistanis are and always have been an asset and a source of strength for the country. The significant contributions made by the Pakistani community members to their countries of residence, in numerous fields have brought a good name to their motherland."
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