LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif attended the 92nd birthday ceremony of UK’s Queen Elizabeth II at a local hotel on Thursday and cut the birthday cake of the queen along with British High Commissioner Thomas Drew.
The chief minister gave a piece of cake to the British high commissioner to eat in the boom of applause. The chief minister, while addressing on the occasion, said that attending the 92nd birthday of Queen Elizabeth was an honor for him. Under the leadership of the queen, Commonwealth countries are moving forward towards development and stability, he added.
He said that UK introduced railways and constitution making in the subcontinent. He also said that Pakistan is fully aware of the significance of Pakistan-Britain friendship and desires to strengthen it further.
He said that Britain has provided solid assistance in health and education sectors through DFID.
“We do not need pounds but are looking for technology, technical expertise and cooperation in health and education sectors,” he said.
While addressing the ceremony, British High Commissioner Andrew said that the queen is fully aware of the importance of a wonderful country like Pakistan and always has good wishes for it. He said that Pakistan-Britain relations are transferred to the second generation after a passage of seven decades. He also said that Punjab is making remarkable progress under the leadership of Shehbaz.
The British high commissioner said that development and prosperity are among the top priorities of Shehbaz which is a good omen. He said that Britain has a desire for the solidarity and stability of a wonderful country like Pakistan. He said that the upcoming elections in Pakistan have a great importance.
The chief minister intermingled with the participants of the ceremony and he shook hands with them and inquired about them individually. Guests also took photos with the chief minister.