The Consulate General of Pakistan in Chicago hosted a dignified ceremony to commemorate the 79th Independence Day of Pakistan, bringing together a diverse gathering of Pakistani-American community members, local officials, and members of the Consular Corps. This year’s observance also honored Pakistan’s resounding success in Marka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos.
U.S. Congressman Danny Davis attended as the Chief Guest, joined by Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs, mayors, and representatives from various city administrations across the state.
In his address, Consul General Tariq Karim extended warm felicitations to the Pakistani-American community and reflected on the historical significance of August 14. He highlighted Pakistan’s achievements over the past 78 years despite challenges, and shared messages from the President, Prime Minister, and Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister of Pakistan issued for the occasion.
The Consul General emphasized Pakistan’s strategic geographic location, demographic strength, market size, natural and human resources, growing technology ecosystem, and liberal investment policies, positioning the country as an important economic, transit, and investment hub. He also drew attention to Pakistan’s vast tourism potential with its cultural, historical, and natural attractions.
Addressing recent developments following unprovoked Indian aggression, Tariq Karim noted Pakistan’s proportionate yet decisive response. He underscored that the victory in Marka-e-Haq was not only a military achievement but also a reflection of the nation’s unwavering resolve, moral strength, and the exceptional professionalism of its Armed Forces. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peace and the peaceful resolution of disputes, while affirming that any threat to its territorial integrity would be met with an effective response. Highlighting the plight of the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK), he reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast support for their struggle for the right to self-determination.
The Consul General further stressed the importance of the longstanding Pakistan–U.S. partnership, noting increasing collaboration in trade, technology, energy, agriculture, mining, counterterrorism, and education. He pointed to growing engagement between Pakistan and the Midwest region, including rising trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges, and expressed appreciation to elected officials for their support.
Commending the Pakistani-American community for their contributions to both nations, Tariq Karim encouraged them to uphold Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s principles of Unity, Faith, and Discipline, and to remain active in strengthening Pakistan–U.S. relations.
Congressman Danny Davis, State Treasurer Michael Frerichs, and Mayor Rory E. Hoskins also addressed the gathering, acknowledging the community’s role in enriching Chicago’s multicultural landscape and reaffirming the value of bilateral relations. Messages of greeting were received from Congressman Sean Casten, Congressman Mike Carey, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, Mayor of Chicago Brandon Johnson, and Mayor of Bolingbrook Mary Alexander-Basta.
The event included cultural performances, national songs by Pakistani artists, and a cake-cutting ceremony led by Tariq Karim and Congressman Danny Davis. Guests enjoyed traditional Pakistani cuisine. Earlier in the day, the Consul General hoisted the national flag at the Consulate.
Independence Day celebrations also extended across the Midwest, with the Consul General leading the Pakistan Independence Day Parade on Devon Avenue (Muhammad Ali Jinnah Way), attracting large crowds and enthusiastic participation.
