Islamabad (TDI): Pakistan’s diplomatic missions abroad will mark this year’s March 23 National Day with simplicity, limiting observances to traditional flag-hoisting ceremonies, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar said on Thursday.
In a post on X, Dar stated that National Day receptions would not be held at any of Pakistan’s missions this year, in line with austerity measures announced by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
“This year’s 23rd March National Day will be observed with simplicity at all Pakistan’s missions abroad, limited to the traditional flag-hoisting ceremony,” he wrote, noting that the decision also reflects solidarity with countries and peoples in the Middle East affected by the ongoing conflict and loss of innocent lives.
Dar expressed hope that dialogue and diplomacy would prevail, and that peace, stability, and prosperity would soon return to the region. He emphasized that the move aligns with Pakistan’s broader efforts to demonstrate fiscal discipline while responding to both economic and regional challenges.
Read More: President Zardari Extends National Day Greetings to Mauritius
The National Day of Pakistan, observed annually on March 23, commemorates the adoption of the Lahore Resolution in 1940, a milestone in the struggle that ultimately led to the creation of Pakistan.
The austerity measures, part of a wider plan announced by the federal government, include reducing fuel allocations for official vehicles, limiting foreign travel by government officials, and curbing government-funded receptions and ceremonial events. Ministries and departments have also been instructed to reduce discretionary spending and operational costs as part of efforts to conserve public resources.
Read More: Dar Urges De-escalation in Iran War During Call with Bahrain’s FM
Officials noted that the decision to scale down National Day celebrations is intended both to manage economic pressures and to express solidarity with countries affected by the Middle East conflict.
