In a remarkable display of unity and patriotism, members of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) from across the globe gathered on 6 September 2023, to pay tribute to the sacrifices of their country’s heroes and honour the legacy of their leaders. With events spanning continents, the PML-N demonstrated its unwavering commitment to preserving the memory of those who gave their lives for Pakistan and championing democracy.
PML-N Hong Kong: remembering Pakistan’s Defence Day
In the heart of Kowloon, Hong Kong, PML-N celebrated Pakistan’s Defence Day, an occasion to honour the martyrs of the 1965 war. President of PML-N Hong Kong, Mr Imran Khan, organised a solemn ceremony. Members of the party came together to pray for the elevation of the martyrs who had made the ultimate sacrifice for their nation. The event symbolised the party’s dedication to preserving Pakistan’s history and its commitment to upholding its core values.
PML-N Spain: defending democracy and demanding justice
In Spain, the PML-N community gathered with great enthusiasm to commemorate Pakistan’s Defence Day. President Haji Raja Asad Hussain and Senior Vice President Raja Sajid Mehmood led the event. They offered prayers for the martyrs and called for justice regarding the 9 May incident, as well as the release of Kashmiri leader Yasin Malik. This dual focus on democracy and justice reflects PML-N’s commitment to upholding the principles of justice and democracy, both in Pakistan and beyond.
PML-N France: remembering Pakistan’s founding father and Begum Kulsoom Nawaz
PML-N France Chapter observed the death anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Begum Kulsoom Nawaz with deep reverence. Notable figures such as Papa Riaz Ahmed, Mian Hanif, and Khan Asghar participated in the event, even connecting via telephone. The gathering highlighted the sacrifices made by Begum Kulsoom Nawaz for the sake of democracy. The event was organised by Raja Muhammad Ali Khan, showcasing the unity and strength of PML-N’s overseas chapters.
PML-N South Africa: honouring heroes of the 1965 Indo-Pak War
In South Africa, the Chief Patron of PML-N South Africa Ashfaq Anwar organised a heartfelt tribute to the martyrs and veterans of the 1965 Indo-Pak War. Participants from diverse backgrounds paid their respects to those who sacrificed their lives for their country.
The event commenced with a Quran recitation and prayers for the martyrs’ souls. Notable attendees included Senior Vice President PML-N South Africa Rana Zahid, Shazia Shaukat, Dr Khalil Ahmed, and Azim Noor Elahi. The venue was adorned with the flags of Pakistan and South Africa, and a spectacular fireworks display further enlivened the evening.
PML-N France: meeting with Maryam Nawaz
During this time of remembrance and unity, PML-N Senior Vice President and Chief Organiser Maryam Nawaz met with PML-N Senior Vice President France chapter Chaudhry Shamroz Elahi Ghumman, at the Party Secretariat Model Town Lahore. Maryam Nawaz emphasised the critical role played by all members of the overseas organisation of PML-N in the development of not only the party but also Pakistan as a whole. She made it clear that once PML-N takes over the government, the right to parliamentary representation will be extended to overseas Pakistanis as soon as possible.
In a show of goodwill and camaraderie, Chaudhry Shamroz Ghumman extended an invitation to Maryam Nawaz to visit France, which she graciously accepted. Maryam Nawaz expressed her commitment to not only visiting France but also other countries to encourage and support party members abroad.
PML-N Saudi Arabia: Pakistani workers’ interests
A detailed, impartial and fact-based research report prepared by Mirza Munir Baig, a senior leader of Muslim League-Nawaz based in Riyadh, highlights India’s efforts to pressure Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) into expelling Pakistani workers. According to the report, India is urging these Arab countries to replace Pakistani labour with cheaper and more skilled workers from India. However, the Arab nations have not yet accepted this offer. Baig suggests that the Arab world is changing, with a new generation prioritising business over brotherhood.
The report also raises concerns about Pakistan’s diminishing global reputation and influence. It highlights a missed opportunity when the Saudi crown prince chose to skip visiting Pakistan and spend time in India, even after the G20 conference. India’s appeal to Saudi Arabia is seen as a result of its attractive business opportunities, with bilateral trade between the two reaching $52 billion in 2022-2023. In contrast, Pakistan is often perceived as constantly seeking financial aid from Saudi Arabia, which has eroded its international standing.
The report concludes by emphasising that Pakistan faces two choices: continuing to endure humiliation and decline or reclaiming its honour and dignity by taking decisive action to improve the country’s direction. It underscores the urgency of self-improvement, given Pakistan’s status as a perceived burden on the international stage, warning that the world may not tolerate this burden for much longer.
