WASHINGTON, Aug 18 (Alliance News): The Pakistani-American community in Houston, Texas, celebrated Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day with a vibrant display of patriotism, unity, and cultural pride at the ACT – (Arts, Culture & Taste) Pakistan Festival 2025.
The festival embodied the spirit of “Marka-e-Haq,” reflecting Pakistan’s resolve to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, who joined the celebrations, said, “We bow our heads before the Almighty and we are thankful to our valiant sons of the soil for enabling us to hold our heads high. Our armed forces have proved to the world that our sovereignty is inviolable.”
He emphasized that the true essence of Bunyan-al-Marsoos would only be realized when Pakistan stands proudly among nations with a strong economy, noting that a resilient economy is the foundation of impregnable defence. Highlighting recent economic advancements under Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, the Ambassador said the turnaround was being recognized by international rating agencies.
On Pak-U.S. relations, Sheikh remarked that the partnership is on a “positive and upward trajectory,” stressing that a strong relationship between the two “mega countries of the future” is essential, not optional.
He praised the Pakistani-American diaspora as the strongest bond between the two nations and urged them to continue strengthening bilateral ties.
Pakistan’s Consul General in Houston, Muhammad Aftab Chaudhry, along with community leaders including Saraj Narsi and Saeed Sheikh, played a key role in organizing the festival.
Members of the diplomatic corps, business community, professionals, and Pakistani diaspora actively participated.
A special proclamation from Houston Mayor John Whitmire was also read out on the occasion.
The event featured cultural highlights including a concert by Tahseen Javed, a fashion show by the Pakistani Lions Club showcasing traditional attires, and a documentary narrating Pakistan’s history and progress.
Children enjoyed painting sessions, rides, and family activities, while the Pakistani mango tasting corner attracted large crowds.
Adding to the excitement, Turkish Airlines held a lucky draw, awarding two attendees round-trip tickets to any global destination, complete with a complimentary hotel stay and hospitality package during a stopover in Istanbul.
