Ambassador joins as Houston Celebrates Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day and Marka-e-Haq with a display of unity, cultural exuberance and national pride
Houston : The Pakistani American community in Houston marked Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day with an exuberant celebration at the ACT – (Arts, Culture & Taste) Pakistan Festival 2025, creating a historic moment of unity as well for as demonstration of cultural and national pride. The festival celebrated and embodied the spirit of “Marka-e-Haq”, reflecting Pakistan’s resolve to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity against any aggression.
Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh graced the event, as the Guest of Honor. Amid thunderous applause, the Pakistan’s envoy to the United States congratulated the participants on the momentous day.
“We bow our heads before the Almighty and we are thankful to our valiant sons of the soil for enabling us to hold our heads high. Our armed forces have proved to the world that our sovereignty is inviolable,” stated the Ambassador.
Highlighting the philosophy of Bunyan-al-Marsoos, the Ambassador reiterated his call that the true essence of the mission will only be realized when Pakistan stands proudly among nations with a strong economy. A powerful economy would form the essential foundation of impregnable defense, he observed.
Commenting on recent economic advancements under Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, Ambassador Sheikh noted that the country’s economic turnaround was clearly being testified though improved ranking by international rating agencies.
On Pak-U.S. relations, Ambassador Sheikh affirmed that the partnership is on a “positive and upward trajectory,” adding, “A strong relationship between these two mega countries of the future is essential, not optional.”
He lauded the role of Pakistani American diaspora as the strongest bond between the two nations and encouraged them to continue contributing towards strengthening bilateral ties.
Pakistan’s Consul General in Houston, Muhammad Aftab Chaudhry, his team’s and the efforts of community leaders including Saraj Narsi, Saeed Sheikh along with community volunteers contributed toward the success of the event and elevating the festival to new heights. Representatives from of diplomatic corps, business community, professionals, leaders and members of Pakistani diaspora joined the event.
A special proclamation from Houston Mayor John Whitmire was read on the occasion, adding to the event’s significance and declaring 14th August as Pakistan day in Texas.
Highlights included a mesmerizing concert by Tahseen Javed, a stunning cultural dress show by the Pakistani Lions Club showcasing traditional attire from Pakistan’s diverse regions, and an impactful documentary highlighting Pakistan’s history and progress. The festival also featured engaging activities for children, including colorful painting sessions, rides, and family entertainment. A major crowd favorite was the Pakistani mango tasting corner, where attendees declared, “The world’s best mangoes come from Pakistan!” A lively Q&A session rewarded participants with crates of mangoes for correct answers.
Adding to the excitement, Turkish Airlines organized a unique lucky draw, awarding two fortunate attendees round-trip tickets to any destination worldwide, complete with a complimentary hotel stay and hospitality package during a stopover in Istanbul. The announcement sparked immense enthusiasm among the crowd.
The festival stood out for its remarkable unity, with leaders, activists, and representatives from nearly all major Houston community organizations coming together in a powerful display of solidarity. The significant participation of women and children underscored the inclusive spirit, with attendees enjoying the evening with friends and families.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
