In an event held at Sand Beach Hotel and graced by diplomats, Hon. Krubally expressed sentiment while sending a message of unity between the two brotherly countries. He called for unity to address the social, political, economic and security challenges that lie ahead.
By working hand-in-hand, he continued that the two countries can ensure a brighter future, saying the momentous occasion reminds them of the sacrifices made by their founding fathers and the indomitable spirit of the Pakistani people.
“As we hoist Pakistani flag high in The Gambia, it is a clear testimony that Pakistani residents in the country are far from home but still feel at home. We should join hands and pay homage to those who endured hardships and faced immense challenges to secure the birth of Pakistan,” he said.
Lamin Yabou, permanent secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), congratulated the government and people of Pakistan. He said the two countries have a lot to do, while stating that our challenges are almost similar.
He buttressed that The Gambia and Pakistan are members of key international organisations, saying these show that the two are light-minded countries that have common challenges they need to confront together.
“Celebrating National Day is always a time for reflection and as we reflect, our commitment should be to build a safer, peaceful and more developed world. We are in a decade of action where we commit ourselves as an international community to bring development for humanity. I hope The Gambia and Pakistan, who have jointly contributed to world peace, will continue to be a beacon of hope for humanity,” he added.
He further reiterated that together, the two countries have cooperated in military training and Pakistan has also contributed to the human capital development of The Gambia. He emphasised that the people and government of Pakistan remain good friends of The Gambia.
Furqan Ahmed Siddiqi, representative of the Pakistani Community in The Gambia, also shared the rich history behind their independence from their British colonist. He explained that whenever they celebrate that day, they remember the sacrifices made by those who lost their lives whilst fighting for independence.
“I came to the country in 2013 and I found few Pakistani by then investing the in the business community, especially in textile and electronic business. For the past 10 years, the community continues to grow. Gambia is a hospitable place for us and we are very happy that Gambia welcomed us. Gambians are very friendly and they see us as their own brothers and sisters. We came and prospered while trying to contribute to the economic growth of the country,” he testified.
