BERGEN COUNTY HOSTS FIRST EVER PAKISTANI FLAG RAISING CEREMONY

HACKENSACK, NJ – On Monday, the County of Bergen hosted a celebration in honor of the 76^th anniversary of Pakistan’s Independence in the Piazza at the One Bergen County Plaza Administration Building.

Pakistan’s Independence Day is celebrated on August 14^th and commemorates the date in 1947 when Pakistan achieved independence and was declared a sovereign state, following the end of British rule in the region with the Indian Independence Act.

Bergen County Executive James J. Tedesco, III issued a proclamation recognizing August 14, 2023, as Independence Day of Pakistan. The proclamation and a Key to the County were presented to Acting Consul General of Pakistan in New York, the Honorable Nawab Adil Khan, who also delivered remarks. Dr. Azfar Chak of Paramus served as the event’s keynote speaker.

Greeting remarks were presented by District 37 Assemblywoman Shama Haider.

The event featured vocal performances by Sherjan Ahmad and a Bhangra dance by the Gabru Punjab Group.

The County of Bergen also presented Pakistan Independence Day Service Awards to members of the community.

The event culminated in the raising of the Pakistani flag. Refreshments were donated by various Bergen County restaurants and organizations.

2023 Pakistan Outstanding Community Service Contribution Honorees:

• Afsheen Akbar
• Dr. Ghazal Arshad
• Ghazala Shahid Chohan
• Asad Gilani
• Syed M. Tahir
• Shalah Shabbir