News Desk
ISLAMABAD: The Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan Neil Hawkins said on Thursday that Australia was one of the first countries to formally recognize the new nation of Pakistan in 1947 and since then both countries enjoy strong friendly bonds.
While delivering his message on the occasion to celebrate Australia Day, the High Commissioner said that Australia Day was a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the friendly relationship between the two great countries.
“In my seven months stay and traveling around Pakistan, I have learned more about Australian cricketers than I did being in Australia, however, it has also allowed me to come in contact with the depth of talent, of both men and women here in Pakistan”, he said.
Friendly Ties with Pakistan
The high Commissioner further said that he was here to appreciate the amazing diversity across many communities in Pakistan, but the diversity with warmth and generosity he found here was unique to this country. “We have a long history together. Now over 100,000 persons of Pakistani origin call Australia their home and make a valuable contribution to our multicultural and vibrant society”, he said.
We’re pleased that many Pakistani students choose to study in Australia’s high-quality educational institutions and system in a safe, supportive and tolerant environment”, he added.
The people of Australia are known as caring and practical people, and tackling climate change is a shared priority for the two countries. After the devastating floods, Australia committed A$5.2 million through the United Nation to assist Pakistan’s citizens who are in need.
As we mark another year of nationhood in Australia, we also mark another year of shared friendship and experience with Pakistan, 75 years young and building strong, the High Commissioner concluded.
Ends
