Russian President Vladimir Putin sent congratulations to his Pakistani counterpart Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan on the Independence Day of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
This holiday has been celebrated annually since 1947. The only time Independence Day was not celebrated was on August 14, 2010, when the country fought the flood.
Throughout the republic, the holiday opens with the ceremony of raising the national flag. People pay tribute to national heroes, salutes are launched in Islamabad.
Text of the message reads in part:
Esteemed Mr. President:
Esteemed Mr. Prime Minister:
Kindly accept my sincere congratulations on a national holiday of your country – the Independence Day.
I am pleased to note friendly nature of the Russian-Pakistani relations. Between our countries there is a constructive political dialogue, fruitful cooperation is gaining momentum in trade, economic, energy, humanitarian and other sectors.
I am confident that further strengthening of partnership over bilateral and international issues meets the fundamental interests of our peoples and contributes to regional security and stability.
I wish you robust health and success, peace and well-being to all citizens of Pakistan.
August 14th, 2019
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: Official website of Russian President