By Haddy Touray
The Gambia-based Pakistani Community and the honorary consul of Pakistan to the Gambia, Hon. Kebba K. Krubally Friday, August 14th marked the country’s 79th Independence Day at Pakistan’s Consulate along Jimpex Road in Kanifing.
On August 14th 1947, Pakistan got its independence from Britain and subsequently became an Islamic Republic of Pakistan with its nationals celebrating the day each year. So last Friday, scores of Pakistani nationals in the Gambia joined their honorary consul, Hon. Krubally and their friends to celebrate the day.
“Today is a day of great significance to the people of Pakistan. It is a day to remember the historic journey that led to the creation of Pakistan and to reflect on the values of unity, faith, determination and resilience that have continued to shape the nation,” declared the honorary consul.
Hon. Krubally took a moment to recognize the remarkable progress Pakistan had made over the years. From its contributions to education, science, technology and agriculture, to its rich cultural heritage and vibrant people. He says Pakistan continues to make a meaningful contributions both within the region and internationally.
“This occasion is also an opportunity to celebrate the warm and longstanding friendship between Pakistan and the Gambia. Our two countries share many common values and have maintained cordial relations based on mutual respect, understanding and cooperation,” Hon. Krubally said. He added that over the years, the relations have continued to develop in areas including education, trade, health, agriculture, culture and human resources development. As honorary consul, he said, he considered it a privilege to play a part in strengthening the bonds.
“The Honorary Consulate remains committed to serving as a bridge between our two countries, facilitating greater people-to-people connections and encouraging opportunities for cooperation that can benefit both Pakistan and the Gambia,” Hon. Krubally emphasized.
To the Pakistani Community living and working in the Gambia, the honorary consul encourage them to continue being good ambassadors of their country by promoting the values of friendship, respect, hard work and mutual understanding.
For his part, the President of Pakistani Community in the Gambia, Muhammad Usman spoke of the importance of celebrating their national day. He expressed gratitude for the peaceful environment they continue to operate in the Gambia. He called on his compatriots to keep on working and stay safe. “We have to stay safe and do our business. We have to do something good for the country,” Mr. Usman reiterated.
The high point of the occasion was the raising of the national flag and signing of the national anthem of Pakistan followed by refreshment.
