Pakistan Heritage Day Commemorated at New York Mayor’s Office at Gracie Mansion
By Elaine Pasquini
New York City: The Consul General of Pakistan in New York, Aamer Ahmed Atozai, and Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, enjoyed the historic observance of Pakistan Heritage Day on August 28, 2025, hosted for the first time by the Mayor’s Office at Gracie Mansion, the official residence of the Mayor of New York City.
The event was graced by New York City Mayor Eric Adams, senior city and state officials, political leaders, diplomats and a large number of prominent Pakistani-American community members. A moment of silence was observed in remembrance of the victims of the recent catastrophic floods in Pakistan.
In his remarks, Consul General Atozai expressed appreciation to Mayor Adams for recognizing the contributions of the Pakistani-American community and for celebrating Pakistan Heritage Day. He underscored that Pakistan’s heritage is not only rooted in its independence in 1947 but also in its ancient civilizations, pluralistic traditions and cultural richness that continue to inspire the world. He highlighted the role of the Pakistani-American community as an integral part of New York’s civic and economic fabric, excelling in diverse fields, including medicine, academia, technology, public service and the arts.
Speaking to the group, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad congratulated the community on Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day and commended their role in strengthening Pakistan-US relations. He reiterated that Pakistan is fully capable of defending its sovereignty while continuing to work for peace, progress and mutual cooperation with the international community.
Both Pakistani envoys conveyed deep gratitude to the Mayor’s Office for International Affairs, led by Commissioner Aissata Camara, for its unwavering support to the Pakistani American community and for making the landmark celebration of Pakistan Heritage Day possible.
In his address, Mayor Adams congratulated the Pakistani-American community on the 78th Independence Day of Pakistan and praised their outstanding contributions to New York City’s social, cultural and economic life. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the city’s engagement with all global communities, including the vibrant Pakistani diaspora.
The event concluded with reaffirmation of the enduring bonds of friendship between Pakistan and the United States and recognition of the Pakistani-American community as a vital bridge between the two nations.
(Elaine Pasquini is a freelance journalist. Her reports appear in the Washington Report on Middle East Affairs and Nuze.Ink.)
