WASHINGTON – The governors of Virginia and Maryland, the two major statesof the United States, have praised the Pakistan Festival USA, being held inthe first week of September, as one of the biggest South Asian event,praising the contribution of Pakistani Americans in the overall uplift ofthe state economy and communities.
Pakistan Festival USA will hold its 32nd celebrations on September 2 tomark 71st anniversary of Pakistan’s Independence, which will be attended bygovernment officials, foreign diplomats and a large number of PakistaniAmericans from the states of New York, Maryland and Virginia. PakistanFestival USA, is holding this event for the past three decades without abreak.
In his message, Governor Ralph Northam said the festival promotes theguiding principles of the creation of Pakistan unity, faith and discipline.“The Pakistan Festival celebrates the thousands of Pakistani Americans inthe Commonwealth, whose abilities and contributions strengthen Virgina’seconomy, culture and communities,” the governor said ahead of the festival.
Governor Northam said that in recognition of the contribution of PakistaniAmericans, the USHouse of Representatives has acknowledged this event as one of the largestannual events celebrating Pakistan’s independence.Governor Larry Hogan of Maryland extended warm greetings to the PakistaniAmericans in recognition of a meaningful and joyous tribute to the 32ndannual Pakistan Festival honoring Pakistan’s independence.
He extended “grateful appreciation to all those who have contributed to thegrowth and successof one of the largest celebration of Pakistan Independence in the country”.Governor Hogan praised the high standards of the festival which, he said,offers a variety of food and entertainment, including authentic Pakistanicuisine, musical performance, youth events and booths of Pakistan, jewelry,artifacts and crafts.
The 32nd Annual Pakistan Festival USA will pay its special tributes torenowned Pakistani singer late Junaid Jamshed. The celebration features afun filled day for all ages, and amazing culture performances by noted andpopular artists from Pakistan, ethnic Pakistani cuisine, handicrafts,boutiques, sports and children entertainment.A contingent of US Color Guard will participate in the event. NationalAnthem of Pakistan andUSA and messages and proclamations will be read out during the ceremony.Pakistan’s Ambassadorto the Untied States Ali Jehangir Siddiqui will cut the anniversary cake.
The organizers are planning to telecast the program live to Europe, MiddleEast and South.Popular singers who will perform at the event include Ali Haider, MalaikaFaisal, Mazhar Rahi,Sharique RoomiRahim Shah and Maya Khan.The daylong event will also feature folk dances and variety of othercultural performances.