Singapore (TDI): Pakistan’s High Commission in Singapore hosted a grand reception on Thursday to commemorate the 85th anniversary of Pakistan Day, which is observed on March 23rd every year.
The event was attended by distinguished guests and highlighted the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Singapore.
Koh Poh Koon, Senior Minister of State for the Ministry of Manpower and the Ministry of Sustainability and Environment, attended the event as the Guest of Honour.
Prominent Members of Parliament accompanied him, Louis Ng and Lim Wee Kiak, along with other guests from the diplomatic corps, business community, academia, civil society, media, and the Pakistani diaspora.
Pakistan Day Reception in Singapore @ForeignOfficePk @epwing_official @GovtofPakistan @MoIB_Official @PkPublicDiplo @RadioPakistan @appcsocialmedia @PTVNewsOfficial @rabia_shafiq_ pic.twitter.com/K4S0sAsT6t
— Pakistan High Commission Singapore (@PakinSingapore) April 10, 2025
The ceremony commenced with the national anthems of Pakistan and Singapore, followed by a specially curated documentary celebrating Pakistan’s rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse heritage.
The film was met with warm applause, reflecting the deep interest and appreciation among attendees. A ceremonial cake-cutting followed, joined by the Guest of Honor and dignitaries to mark the occasion.
Welcoming the guests, High Commissioner Rabia Shafiq highlighted the historic importance of Pakistan Day and reflected on the journey of Pakistan since 1940. She reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its bilateral relationship with Singapore, especially as both countries prepare to celebrate 60 years of diplomatic ties next year.
High Commissioner Shafiq also acknowledged the strong and positive role of the Pakistani diaspora in Singapore, calling them “Pakistan’s permanent ambassadors.”
She commended their contributions to Singapore’s socio-economic landscape and their efforts in promoting cultural exchange and friendship between the two nations.
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In his address, Dr. Koh congratulated the people and government of Pakistan on the occasion and praised the Pakistani community for their vital role in shaping Singapore’s key economic sectors.
He noted the growing potential for enhanced bilateral cooperation, especially in trade, food security, and the digital economy.
Guests at the reception enjoyed a rich selection of traditional Pakistani cuisine, representing the nation’s warm hospitality and culinary heritage.
As part of the cultural and economic outreach, guests were gifted premium Basmati rice and spice mixes, generously contributed by Guard Agricultural Research & Services Private Limited and Shan Foods Private Limited, offering them a flavorful glimpse into Pakistan’s world-class exports.
Areeba Kanwal is a contributor at The Diplomatic Insight and has passion for International Relations and diplomacy.