ILLINOIS: Pakistan USA Freedom Reliance celebrated Pakistan’s Independence Day with great enthusiasm at the DuPage County Fairground in Wheaton, Illinois.
The historic event was attended by some 5,000 people, including journalists, diplomats, and representatives of the local governments of both countries, as well as members of the American, South Asian, and Pakistani communities.
The event proceeded with the recitation of the Holy Quran. The consul general Tariq Karim also joined in the cake-cutting ceremony along with senators, representatives, members of Congress, and the mayors of many neighboring communities.
The DuPage attorney general and county treasurer welcomed and acknowledged the attendance of many DuPage County Board members and Chicago North suburban local authorities.
Sheriff James Mendrick, Pakistani Americans and member of the DuPage County Board Saadia Gul, Naperville City council Ashfaq Hussain Syed and other prominent people participated in the historic event. Most of the dignitaries and community leaders received awards from the organizers.
Sadia Khan of Ethnic Trendz gave a stunning bridal fashion show and exhibition.
Consul General Tariq Karim said that our country Pakistan is making every effort to realize the Quaid’s vision of a modern, democratic, and prosperous Pakistan.
Consul General Tariq Karim also briefed the audience on developments following unprovoked Indian aggression and Pakistan’s measured, proportionate, yet decisive response.
He said that Pakistan’s victory in Marka-e-Haq was not merely a military success, but a reflection of the nation’s unshakable resolve, moral strength, and the unparalleled professionalism and valor of its armed forces.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s firm commitment to peace and the peaceful resolution of all outstanding disputes.
Consul General of Pakistan Tariq Karim remarked that freedom is a great blessing. Even though we live in America, we cherish our beloved nation’s freedom, and we are all enthusiastically commemorating this day together.
While applauding all Pakistanis living abroad, including in America, he also thanked everyone who took part in the successful event and paid gratitude to the whole Pakistan US Freedom Reliance team. Salman Aftab and Shirin Marvin moderated the event.
Pakistan-US Freedom Reliance President Iqbal Khan said that he have been active in DuPage County for more than 35 years to promote US-Pakistan relationship and to take it to new heights.
The spirit of Azadi Mela and President of Pakistan American Friendship Association Iqbal Khan said that they have been decorating Azadi Mela to celebrate Pakistan’s independence day for the past several years.
He said that all Pakistani Americans remember their homeland Pakistan here in America and pray for its development because their hearts are Pakistani.
“We want to say that even though we are far away from Pakistan, we are celebrating Pakistan’s Independence Day with great enthusiasm,” said renowned singer Tahseen Javed.
Traditional music was also performed which was enjoyed by the participants. Local companies set up stalls around the avenues to display their goods, offering everything from vibrant apparel and scarves to food from local eateries.
Several Pakistani-Americans and their families from the DuPage County, Chicago area, and other areas participated in the Azadi Mela. Renowned Pakistani singer Tahseen Javed and a few local singers enthralled the audience with their best performances.
The organizers of the event also set up booths selling traditional Pakistani cuisine, and the participants’ attention was attracted to booths selling clothing, jewelry, and food services.
The Azadi Mela participants appreciated their appreciation to Iqbal Khan and his staff, and they expressed hope that they would continue to host events in the future. Besides DuPage County residents, the event was also attended by close friends and members of the media.
