Javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem finally gives Pakistan its fourth Olympic gold in athletics, 40 years after the country’s first Olympic gold in athletics — and it was indeed a moment of pride for Pakistanis living in the UAE.
The win was a reminder of the team’s potential on the international platform on the occasion of Pakistan Independence Day celebrations in the UAE.
This victory was symbolic because it came at the time of Independence Day celebrations on the eleventh of August, Sunday – before the fourteenth when it is celebrated but was held in Dubai in the World Trade Centre.
As many as 10000 people present in the venue got to watch a 12-hour cultural and musical show.
Various sections warmly congratulated the Javelin thrower, who won the gold medal.
Speaking to the media present at the venue, Mirza Khud the founder of Pakistani Riders Group PRG who was accompanied by 52 fellow riders said, “The 27-year-old has done a lot in bringing pride to our country. This achievement of the project is being hailed across the globe. Ole position of our nation is boosted by a gold medal that one gets in the Olympic games. It seems like a blessing for all the Pakistanis out there. “
On behalf of the Pakistani riders’ community living in the UAE, “We would like to express our sincere congratulations to Arshad Nadeem. It also contributes to the unity of a people to have such a monumental victory especially one that occurred just before the celebrations of our Independence Day,” he said.
The Bikers group that has a weekend ride not only covers places and areas within the UAE but it also covers Oman, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Qatar on their Honda Gold Wings, Harley-Davidsons, and other steady sports bikes.
“As the weather in the UAE becomes better we are going to resume our pan-GCC rides again The Bikers’ group is today part of the parade to show that we are one and united and to encourage people to be part of it,” said Khud.
The lively schedule comprised of art and cultural entertainments, Musical drama, Folk music, dances, etc., depicting the history and role of Pak-Emirati community in the progress of the United Arab Emirates.
This event was supported by the “Emirates Loves Pakistan” official page, Pakistan Association Dubai, Dubai Police and made in close cooperation with the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Many Pakistanis residing in Sharjah were among the first to set on their travel to work to mark what would be the largest-ever Pakistani Independence day celebrations in Dubai.
UAE expatriate residing in the country for ten years, Nasir Abbas added, ‘I along with a group of twelve have come here, including family and friends’, I was awake since morning, this celebration and extravagance on such a large scale is for the first time; I have woken my daughters at 7.30 this morning, we started from Sharjah’.
It was also attended by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, diplomats and other members of the political echelon, influential and outstanding individuals of the Pakistani community in UAE.
Speaking to the attendees, Hussain Muhammad, Consul General of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to UAE emphasized the resilience and determination of the Pakistani people. He also mentioned Nadeem’s achievements, as well as the lasting bond and mutual respect between UAE and Pakistan.
“Look at the recent exceptional performance of Arshad Nadeem who broke the 100-year Olympic record. Let no one underrate the will and resilience of the people of Pakistan and the commitment of its leadership to address any challenges,” said the Pakistani Consul General, as the audience rejoined with applause and cheers in honor of the athlete’s accomplishment.
Muhammad noted the day’s celebration also highlighted the enduring friendship and deep-rooted ties between the UAE and Pakistan.
He added, “Pakistan and the UAE enjoy close, friendly relations. These relations are embedded in history and linked together by common social values, traditions, and faith. The Late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, a visionary leader of the UAE, laid the foundations of brotherly relations between our two countries in the early 70s. He had a special affection for Pakistan’s leadership and people; his memories are fondly prized even today.”
He accentuated that this tradition of friendship has not only continued but has been strengthened by successors on both sides.
“The leadership of our two countries enjoys each other’s trust, and confidence, and there is a strong desire to further expand political, trade, and economic relations. We are confident that Pakistan’s special relationship with the UAE will continue to grow. This day also gives us the opportunity for reflection.”
“On this occasion, I urge the Pakistani community to work enthusiastically for building a stronger and more prosperous Pakistan, as well as contribute positively to the vibrant and diverse society of the UAE,” added Muhammad.
