WELLINGTON: New Zealand’s Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Christopher Luxon, participated in a grand celebration marking Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day in Auckland, as reported by state broadcaster PTV News on Saturday.
The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including Minister for Ethnic Communities Mark Mitchell, Leader of the Opposition and former Prime Minister Chris Hipkins, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to New Zealand Faisal Aziz Ahmed, and several Members of Parliament.
Addressing the nearly 1000-strong gathering of Kiwi Pakistanis, Prime Minister Luxon congratulated Pakistan on its Independence Day.
He emphasized the long-standing and cordial relationship between Pakistan and New Zealand, and lauded the contributions of the Kiwi Pakistani community to New Zealand’s development. Luxon acknowledged the significant role played by Pakistanis in enriching New Zealand’s society.
Leader of the Opposition Chris Hipkins also took the opportunity to appreciate the Pakistani community’s contributions to New Zealand, highlighting the strength of ties between the two nations.
A symbolic flag hoisting ceremony was conducted by Pakistan’s High Commissioner to New Zealand, Dr. Faisal Aziz Ahmed, in the presence of New Zealand’s leadership. During the ceremony, Dr. Asif Khan, President of the Pakistan Association of New Zealand (PANZ), presented shawls made in Pakistan to Prime Minister Luxon and other dignitaries.
Dr. Khan, in his address, highlighted the activities and future plans of PANZ and called for both governments to work towards establishing a strategic partnership for mutual benefit.
The event, hosted by the Pakistan Association of New Zealand (PANZ) with support from the Pakistan High Commission, the New Zealand Ministry of Ethnic Communities, and various Auckland-based Pakistani businesses, featured cultural performances, poetry recitals, and patriotic songs. Additionally, the launch of the new PANZ interactive website was a key highlight.
PM Luxon’s participation in this celebration was seen as a gesture of goodwill towards Pakistan, reinforcing the positive relationship between the two countries. The event was part of a series of celebrations held across New Zealand to mark Pakistan’s Independence Day.
