ISLAMABAD: Britain’s King Charles III and the ambassadors of Russia, China and Iran extended their greetings to the government and people of Pakistan on Pakistan Day.
In a message, King Charles said he and Queen Camilla conveyed their warmest congratulations to the president and the people of Pakistan, expressing goodwill for the nation on its national day. They also reaffirmed their enduring ties between the two countries.
Reflecting on bilateral relations, King Charles highlighted the longstanding friendship between the United Kingdom and Pakistan, describing it as rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and their association within the Commonwealth. The British monarch noted that the relationship was further strengthened by the vibrant British-Pakistani community, whose contributions continue to enrich life in the UK, as well as by deep links of family, culture, and enterprise between the two nations. He also underscored the importance of the Commonwealth, saying its diversity and the energy of its youth offer hope for progress, particularly at a time of global uncertainty.
King Charles said he looked forward to the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting later this year as an opportunity to reaffirm shared commitments and shape future co-operation. Highlighting environmental co-operation, he referred to Pakistan’s natural heritage, from its mountain regions to the Indus Delta, and stressed the shared responsibility to protect the environment. The King expressed appreciation for ongoing collaboration between the UK and Pakistan on climate resilience, including efforts to strengthen flood preparedness, improve water management, and mobilise investment in clean energy and nature-based solutions. He wished all Pakistanis, at home and abroad, a peaceful and prosperous year ahead.
In response, President Zardari said he was deeply moved by King Charles III’s heartfelt message on Pakistan Day. “The King’s warm words reflect a bond that goes beyond diplomacy, rooted in people, culture, and a shared future. Truly touched by this enduring friendship,” the president said in a message on X (formerly Twitter).
Meanwhile, Russia’s Ambassador Albert P. Khorev extended his “heartfelt” congratulations to the government and people of Pakistan on Pakistan Day.
“This year marks the 86th anniversary of the adoption in 1940 of the Lahore Resolution, which paved the way for the emergence, seven years later on the Indian subcontinent, of a new state independent of British colonial oppression — the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. The Pakistani people have overcome with dignity all the difficulties of Pakistan’s early years, preserving and enriching their national and traditional values,” the envoy said in a message. He wished all Pakistanis good health, well-being, and good fortune, as well as success in their work for the development and prosperity of their country.
Meanwhile, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong extended Eid greetings to the people of Pakistan, highlighting the enduring friendship between the two countries as they mark 75 years of diplomatic relations this year.
In a message, the envoy conveyed warm wishes to “all Pakistani brothers and sisters” on the festive occasion, expressing hope for peace, prosperity, and well-being.
He noted that China recently celebrated the Spring Festival of the Year of the Horse and was currently sharing Eid joy with Pakistan.
The ambassador said the two countries would jointly organise a series of events to commemorate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties, aimed at further strengthening their longstanding partnership.
He expressed optimism that China-Pakistan relations would continue to deepen, with “steadfast friendship” becoming even stronger, practical co-operation yielding greater results, and cultural exchanges growing more frequent and closer.
Zaidong said both sides looked forward to working together to build a better future for bilateral relations.
He also wished prosperity to both countries.
Also, Iranian Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam extended his “sincere and heartfelt greetings” to the government and people of Pakistan on Pakistan Day.
“May Allah Almighty bring peace, love, prosperity, and welfare to your beloved homeland,” he said in a message.
