Islamabad – A ceremonious reception was held at the Residence of France in Islamabad, Pakistan to mark the French National Day, commemorating the 236th anniversary of the storming of the Bastille. The event was hosted by the Ambassador of France to Pakistan, Nicolas Galey, and attended by dignitaries, diplomats, government officials, and distinguished guests. The Chief Guest on the occasion was Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb.
The dignified celebration commenced with the playing of the national anthems of France and Pakistan, setting a tone of unity and mutual respect. A striking replica of the Eiffel Tower was also on display, becoming a prominent attraction for guests and a visual representation of French heritage. The evening was further enriched by a selection of exquisite cuisine, thoughtfully curated by Movenpick hotel in accordance with French culinary traditions.
In his address, Ambassador Galey reflected on the enduring principles of the French Revolution—liberty, equality, and fraternity—emphasizing the importance of upholding human rights and equality in today’s global landscape. “The powerful, enduring, and universal message of the French Revolution must be reaffirmed more than ever,” he remarked.
The Ambassador praised Pakistan’s immense potential and acknowledged the contributions of its professionals, particularly engineers, businessmen, farmers, and youth. He paid tribute to Pakistan’s Olympic and Paralympic athletes, Arshad Nadeem and Haider Ali, for their achievements at the Paris Games, describing them as “great examples and an inspiration for your country.”
The French Ambassador reaffirmed support for Ukraine, emphasized defense as key to freedom, and noted growing France-Pakistan ties, also highlighted by a recent meeting between President Macron and Prime Minister Sharif to boost business cooperation.
Speaking on behalf of the Government of Pakistan, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb extended warm felicitations to the people and government of France. He appreciated France’s historic contributions to philosophy, literature, art, and political thought, noting their profound imprint on global civilisation.
The Minister also emphasized Pakistan’s interest in continued advocacy from France for a fair and supportive engagement framework within the European Union. He called for enhanced technical and financial cooperation in alignment with Pakistan’s priorities on energy transition and climate resilience. “There is ample room to enhance trade and investment,” he said, highlighting Pakistan’s attractive opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, agriculture, tourism, hospitality, livestock, and infrastructure development, including minerals and mining.
Ambassador Galey expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Pakistan for their warm hospitality and extended thanks to the event’s sponsors and organizers. He acknowledged Omar Satti for overseeing the event, Nicolas Verdun and Frédéric Boucault for their leadership, and the French Embassy team in Islamabad for their dedication. He also recognized Consul General Alexis Chahtahtinsky (Karachi), Honorary Consul Habib Anwar (Lahore), and Anne-Sophie Français, elected counselor of the French community in Pakistan.
Special appreciation was extended to organizers and to Ambassador Galey’s wife, Camélia, for her continued support throughout their diplomatic mission in Pakistan.
The celebration highlighted the deepening ties between France and Pakistan, marked by shared values, cultural exchange, and a commitment to further cooperation.
