MINURSO’S PEACEKEEPERS: NATIONAL DAY OF PAKISTAN
On 14 August, MINURSO raised the Pakistani national flag at the Mission HQ in Laayoune to mark the country’s National Day.
It commemorates the day when Pakistan achieved independence and was declared a sovereign state in August of 1947. Festivities for the day include flag-raising ceremonies, parades, cultural events, and playing of patriotic songs.
Since 1960, Pakistan has been one of the main troops and police contributors to UN peace operations. As of 30 April 2023, 4344 Pakistani peacekeepers serve in peace operations worldwide including the 10 UNMOs currently in MINURSO.
The Pakistan flag comprises a dark green field, representing the Muslim majority of Pakistan, with a vertical white stripe in the hoist, representing religious minorities. In the centre is a white crescent moon and a white five-pointed star, which symbolize progress and light respectively.
پاکستان کا قومی دن مبارک ہو۔