ISLAMABAD: The 46th National Day of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was observed in Islamabad with traditional zeal and fervor at a reception hosted by UAE Ambassador to Pakistan, Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Alzaabi.
Politicians, diplomats, bureaucrats and journalists joined in the celebrations. The congregation was one of the biggest receptions held this year as the new ambassador of the UAE received the guests with open arms.
Minister for Water and Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari was the chief guest on the occasion while Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Admiral Nawwaf bin Said Al-Malki, National Security Advisor (NSA) to the Prime Minister Lieutenant-General (retd) Nasser Khan Janjua, Lieutenant-General (retd) Talat Masood, Dr. Anwarul Haq, PTI leader Dr Shahzad Waseem, Abdullah Gul and Spokesperson of the Foreign Office Dr. Muhammad Faisal Chaudhry were among the prominent guests.
Several UAE outfits including Emirates Airlines had installed stalls to showcase their services and brands. Addressing the gathering, Awais Leghari highlighted the decades-old friendly ties between Pakistan and UAE and narrated several steps to further cement the brotherly ties between the two nations.
UAE youth also displayed traditional Arab dance. Ambassador Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Alzaabi, in his address, shed light on the progress of his country since it came into being way back in 1971.
He also highlighted the relationship between Pakistan and the UAE during these years. He underscored that Pakistan and the UAE cooperated with each other whenever they needed each other’s assistance. He expressed hope that the ties would further strengthen in the future.