PAV 5th Edition
PAV@pakamericanvoice.com
Aug 16, 2026
Pakistan Independence Day Celebrated
With Unity and Renewed U.S. Ties
WASHINGTON, DC. The Embassy ofPakistan marked the country’s 79thIndependence Day with a dignified ceremony attended by diplomats, community leaders,business representatives, journalists, women leaders and other distinguished guests.
Ambassador of Pakistan to the United States Rizwan Saeed Sheikh led the ceremony, which began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by the national anthem and the hoisting of Pakistan’s flag.
One of the most important moments was the unveiling of a statue of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah ahead of his 150th birth anniversary. Donated by the Quaid-e-Azam Foundation of Houston, the statue will remain at the Embassy as a lasting reminder of the vision and leadership of Pakistan’s founder.
Ambassador Sheikh paid tribute to Quaid-e-Azam and said his principles of Unity, Faith and Discipline continue to guide Pakistan. He described the creation of Pakistan as a remarkable achievement made possible by the sacrifices of millions during the independence movement.
The Ambassador also spoke about Pakistan’s economic outlook and acknowledged the sacrifices of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies. He emphasized the importance of strong relations between Pakistan and the United States for regional peace.
economic development and international stability.
Members of the Pakistani-American community appreciated the Ambassador’s accessibility and engagement with the diaspora. Several attendees said the Embassy has become an active platform for community participation and for advancing Pakistan’s interests in the United States. Ayesha Khan, a prominent member of the Democratic Central Committee in Maryland, praised the Embassy for organizing a meaningfal celebration. She also appreciated Ambassador Sheikh’s eforts to strengthen bilateral relations and encouraged Pakistani Americans to take a more active role in civic and community affairs.
Pakistani-American women lenders, including Fauzia Kasuri, Beena Gondal, Sarah Butt and Ayesha Mian, welcomed the Embassy’s efforts to present a positive image of Pakistan and promote unity among overseas Pakistanis. Their participation reflected the growing role of women in public service, community development and civic engagement.
An eight-member Pakistani-American delegation of community leaders, professionals, business representatives and civic activists also attended. Members praised the arrangements and expressed support for the Ambassador’s eforts to strengthen Pakistan’s profile in Washington. During an investiture ceremony, Waqar Ali Khan received the President’s Award for Pride of Performance in recognition of his many years of service to Pakistan and the Pakistani-American community. Guests warmly welcomed the honor and described it as fitting recognition of his contributions.
The celebration concluded with expressions of unity, patriotism and commitment to Pakistan’s progress. Participants praised the Embassy for bringing the community together while strengthening connections between Pakistan and the United States