Mar 23 flag hoisting to be behind closed doors: PHC

LONDON: The Pakistan High Commission (PHC) and its four consulates in the United Kingdom will “unfortunately and sadly” hold indoor flag-hoisting ceremonies to celebrate Pakistan’s national day on March 23, amid enhanced precautions in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

Led by High Commissioner Nafees Zakaria, the ceremony in London will be attended only by the officers of the High Commission. This has been decided in view of the instructions received from the government of Pakistan and the host government’s guidelines for exercising extra care in socialising for the sake of individual’s own safety and for the well-being of others due to the Covid-19 pandemic, a statement said on Tuesday.

“We, the Pakistanis at home and abroad, have always celebrated our National Day with zeal, fervour and festivity. Our large gatherings with the community’s enthusiastic participation every year have been a matter of pride and strength for us. Unfortunately and sadly, this year circumstances are unusual due to Covid-19 and we will not be able to celebrate this year’s ceremony together. “Therefore, all members of Pakistani community in the UK and British friends of Pakistan, in the best interest of their own health and well-being, are requested to refrain from visiting the Pakistan High Commission and its consulates for the flag hoisting ceremony on 23 March 2020. Media persons are also requested for the same.”

Similarly, the National Day Reception that was scheduled for March 25 at Royal Albert Dock (RAD) has also been postponed indefinitely.

The High Commissioner also called upon the Pakistani community in the UK to fully adhere to the guidelines of the UK government to successfully cope with the challenge of the disease. For all updates and information on travel and Consular Services, the community is advised to keep visiting the High Commission’s website: www.phclondon.org.