Rome, Italy – The Embassy of Pakistan hosted a landmark public event today to commemorate Marka-e-Haq and Pakistan’s Defence Day, coinciding with the visit of Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (OPHRD), Chaudhry Salik Hussain. The gathering also featured a Town Hall interaction with the Pakistani community in Italy.
The day’s proceedings began with a flag-hoisting ceremony at the Embassy premises. In his opening remarks, Pakistan’s Ambassador praised the vibrant role of the 300,000-strong Pakistani diaspora in Italy, noting their contribution to strengthening bilateral ties and representing Pakistan abroad.
Addressing the participants, the Federal Minister highlighted the symbolic importance of Marka-e-Haq as a reminder of national unity and the ongoing struggle of the Kashmiri people. He strongly condemned human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK) and called for renewed international attention to the issue. Special prayers were offered for the martyrs of Marka-e-Haq as well as for the victims of recent floods in Pakistan.
During his visit, the Minister also inspected the Embassy’s Consular Section and interacted with applicants. He directed the Mission to reinitiate efforts for establishing Police Khidmat Markaz (PKM) across all four provinces, including Gilgit-Baltistan, to facilitate overseas Pakistanis. He further appreciated the Mission’s initiative to re-launch NADRA counters, easing documentation processes for the community.
The event was attended by nearly 150 participants, including students, business representatives, community leaders, and members of the Pakistani media in Italy.