KARACHI: A large number of high-profile individuals, including senior civil and military officials, diplomats, businessmen and people belonging to other walks of life, gather at a local hotel in this seaside metropolis on Monday to celebrate the Saudi National Day.
The event began with the recitation of holy Qur’an, followed by the national songs of the Kingdom and Pakistan.
People participating in the Saudi National Day celebrations are writing down their expressions on a board in Karachi on Sept. 23, 2019. (AN photo)
Chief Minister of Pakistan’s southern Sindh province Syed Murad Ali Shah attended the ceremony as the guest of honor.
He was also joined by Consul General of Saudi Arabia Bandar Fahad A. Al Dayel, Corps Commander Karachi Lt. Gen. Humayun Aziz and other dignitaries while cutting the cake.
Speaking to Arab News on the occasion, the chief minister said Pakistan had special relations with Saudi Arabia.
“Saudi Arabia is a brotherly country that has stood by Pakistan in difficult times. Similarly, Pakistan has never hesitated to stand with Saudi Arabia,” Shah said, adding that it felt like he was celebrating the national day of its own country.
“We have shared values and opinions on many issues,” he continued while thanking the Kingdom for carrying out social welfare activities in Sindh.
The Saudi National Day, locally called Youm Al-Watani, is celebrated on September 23 to commemorate the moment King Abdulaziz bin Saud announced the Kingdom’s unification.
