Pakistan President Extends Warm St. Patrick’s Day Greetings to Ireland
Naveed Ahmad Khan Photos by Sultan Bashir
ISLAMABAD -The Embassy of Ireland in Islamabad marked St. Patrick’s Day with a formal reception at the Serena Hotel Islamabad, bringing together members of the diplomatic community, government officials, and other distinguished guests.
The event was attended by several prominent personalities, including Chief Guest Shaza Fatima Khawaja, along with members of the diplomatic corps and civil society representatives.
Held in honour of Ireland’s National Day, the reception provided an opportunity to strengthen bilateral ties and celebrate longstanding cultural connections between Ireland and Pakistan.
Ireland’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Mary O’Neill, welcomed the guests and reflected on Ireland’s shared historical experiences of colonisation, conflict, and poverty. She noted that these experiences have shaped Ireland’s commitment to the United Nations Charter and the promotion of human rights globally.
Speaking on the occasion, the Ambassador acknowledged Pakistan’s role in promoting peace and dialogue, paying tribute to the government’s recent mediation efforts. She also echoed the sentiments of Ireland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Helen McEntee, who has commended Pakistan’s contributions to peacebuilding.
Highlighting Ireland’s engagement with the European Union, the Ambassador noted that more than 50 years of EU membership has significantly contributed to peace and prosperity in Ireland. She further shared that Ireland will assume the Presidency of the European Union from July this year.
The reception, attended by diplomats and civil society members, marked Ireland’s national day and served as a platform to reinforce bilateral relations and cultural ties between the two countries.
Meanwhile, President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari extended warm felicitations to the President of Ireland, Catherine Connolly, and the Irish people on the occasion of St. Patrick’s Day observed on March 17.
In his message, he noted that the day holds deep significance for people in Ireland and Irish communities worldwide, describing it as a time to celebrate history, faith, and traditions while upholding values of peace, forgiveness, and generosity.
He remarked that while the day is marked by festivity and cultural warmth, the global context remains overshadowed by suffering. Referring to ongoing conflicts in West Asia, he highlighted the widespread devastation affecting countless families.
The President also reflected on the legacy of Saint Patrick, describing it as a story of transformation, healing, and reconciliation. He noted that despite experiencing hardship and incarceration, Saint Patrick returned with a message of forgiveness and hope.
“In these troubling times, his legacy tells us that the true test of humanity is not how fiercely we fight, but how courageously we pursue peace,” he said, urging renewed commitment to compassion, dialogue, diplomacy, and the dignity of human life.
He further emphasized that Pakistan and Ireland share a commitment to multilateralism and peace, with relations rooted in mutual respect and shared values of prosperity.
Expressing confidence in the continued growth of bilateral relations, the President conveyed his best wishes to the Irish leadership and people for a joyous St. Patrick’s Day.
