Renowned journalist and social analyst Mr Baig Raj, while delivering his keynote address to the prominent personalities of the Pakistani community in Sydney, Australia, said that the nation could overcome all its difficulties by following the founding father’s principles of honesty and hard work.
He said that overseas Pakistanis are a source of inspiration for our youth and should transfer their life experiences to the youth. Baig Raj requested that the community come forward and play their role as nation-builders.
Baig Raj said this while delivering a speech at a grand ceremony arranged in his honour at a hotel in Sydney. The ceremony was organized by Tariq Mirza, writer, columnist and founder of Allama Iqbal Study Circle, and Akhtar Mughal, a known poet and President of Bazam-e-Farogh-Fun-o-Adab.
Mr. Qamar Zaman, the Consulate General of Pakistan in Sydney, presided over the ceremony while others who spoke on occasion included Shafaq Jafri, the President of the Aus-Pak Women’s Association; Raja Muhammad Aslam of Hum Watan Media Group; Ejaz Khan, the founder and President of the Pakistan Australia Association; Hamid Saroha, the President of the Pakistan Association; Arshad Naseem Butt, the President of the Pakistan Australia Friendship Group; and Chaudhry Muhammad Iqbal, the President of the Pakistan Association.
They expressed deep concern about the dire state of the economy and Pakistan’s high cost of living. They were critical of the ruling class and demanded immediate relief for their poor fellow citizens.
The speakers noted that the budget has given a free ride to influential sections of society and squeezed the poor and salaried class, which indicates that policymakers are not concerned about the plight of the masses.
They declared their unity with Pakistan and commitment to doing everything possible to improve the situation.
The President of the Pakistan Association, Chaudhry Iqbal, presented a bouquet to the visiting dignitary. Sohail Ahmed, Chief Executive of Glow Media Events, presented memento souvenirs to the chief guest, Baig Raj.
The event’s highlight was that all significant Pakistani organizations and prominent community figures attended the reception.
Qamar Zaman, the Consulate General of Pakistan, welcomed the chief guest and appreciated his services. On this occasion, the Bazam-e-Farogh-Fun-o-Adab and Allama Iqbal Study Circle Australia presented Baig Raj with a commemorative shield.
The chief guest also cut his birthday cake, which Hamid Saroha kindly gifted. Finally, there was a lavish dinner at the Himalayan restaurant. Tariq Mirza delivered the welcome address, while Akhtar Mughal fulfilled his duties as compere.
