Birmingham: The British Pakistan Initiative celebrated the 77th Pakistan Independence Day at the Warwickshire Suite, Edgbaston Cricket Ground, Birmingham.
The event’s chief guest was His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Faisal, the High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Hosting duties were undertaken by Raf Sabir, Dr. Nasir Awan MBE, and their team.
The ceremony commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran. Following the national anthems of Pakistan and Great Britain, British King Charles III’s special representative, Lord Lieutenant of West Midlands Derrick Anderson CBE, Dr. Mohammed Faisal the High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, British diplomat at Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office Richard Barlow, and others delivered speeches.
They commended the Pakistani community for its active role in fostering and developing strong relations between Britain and Pakistan. On this occasion, Muhammad Ayub MBE, a highly respected figure in the community, was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his services to the community and his promotion of Pakistani culture, art, and Qawwali. In addition to members of the Pakistani community, the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, Councillor Kenwood, the Lady Mayoress, and representatives from other nationalities also participated in the event. A sumptuous dinner was served to the distinguished guests from near and far, and the occasion featured live musical performances by Chahat Mahmood Ali Khan Qawwal and Party.
Report by S M Irfan Tahir Photojournalist / Member National Union of Journalists (NUJ) Great Britain
