CANBERRA, August 14, 2026: Australia joined Pakistanis across the world in marking Pakistan’s 80th Independence Day on Friday, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese extending warm greetings to the people of Pakistan and a flag-hoisting ceremony held at the Pakistan High Commission in Canberra.
In his Independence Day message, Prime Minister Albanese said Australia joined the people of Pakistan in celebrating a day of “profound significance”, while reflecting on the achievements of the Pakistani people and the richness of Pakistan’s culture and history.
“Happy Independence Day,” the Prime Minister said, extending his warmest wishes to those celebrating in Pakistan, Australia and around the world.
Albanese highlighted the long-standing relationship between Australia and Pakistan, noting the two countries’ shared interests in education, trade and sport. He also described family and friendship ties as a “powerful and enduring living bridge” between the two nations.
The Prime Minister paid tribute to Australians of Pakistani heritage, saying generations of Australians with Pakistani roots had made significant contributions to the country’s national story through their enterprise, talent and dedication.
He said their contributions had enriched Australian communities and helped build a stronger and more vibrant Australia.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan High Commission in Canberra hosted a flag-hoisting ceremony to commemorate the 80th Independence Day.
The ceremony was attended by a large number of members of the Pakistani community and friends of Pakistan. Messages from the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out on the occasion, highlighting the significance of August 14 and paying tribute to the founding fathers of Pakistan and their vision for an independent, democratic and modern Muslim state.
Speaking at the ceremony, High Commissioner for Pakistan Irfan Shaukat underscored the historic importance of Independence Day and paid tribute to the founding fathers for their struggle and vision for a sovereign, democratic and progressive Pakistan.
The High Commissioner also praised the Pakistani diaspora in Australia, describing overseas Pakistanis as one of Pakistan’s greatest national assets.
He commended the community for its achievements and for strengthening goodwill towards Pakistan across Australia. He also acknowledged the valuable contribution of overseas Pakistanis to Pakistan’s socio-economic development.
The flag-hoisting ceremony provided an opportunity for the Pakistani community in Australia to come together and commemorate the historic day, while reaffirming the enduring bonds between Pakistanis in Australia and their homeland.
