RAWALPINDI (special crosspondent) – A formal flag-hoisting ceremony was held at the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (RCCI) to commemorate Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day, featuring Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Coordinator to the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, as the chief guest.

RCCI President Usman Shaukat, alongside his administrative team, formally received the chief guest and a host of distinguished dignitaries. The event saw the notable attendance of the Ambassador of Spain, Carlos Aragón Gil de la Serna, and the Chairman of Tehreek-e-Jawanan Pakistan (TJP), Mohammad Abdullah Gul. The proceedings were further attended by Senior Vice President Khalid Farooq Qazi, Vice President Fahad Barlas, former chamber presidents, members of the Executive Committee, and a broad delegation of RCCI members.

The commemorative event featured a cake-cutting ceremony in honor of the national day. In a symbolic gesture highlighting the nation’s industrial capacity and commitment to global commerce, a football—manufactured in Pakistan for the FIFA World Cup—was presented to Ambassador Carlos Aragón Gil de la Serna. This presentation underscores the strategic importance of local manufacturing in the context of strengthening business ties through international exports.

Economic Resilience and Strategic Vision

In his address, Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan commended the RCCI for its ongoing support in advising the government on budgetary policies and its instrumental role in reinforcing the nation’s economic foundations. He noted that Pakistan has achieved significant progress following a period of severe economic volatility and is now effectively steering development across critical sectors, with a specific focus on information technology.

The chief guest elaborated on the government’s “Vision 2047,” describing it as a roadmap toward a prosperous, self-reliant, and globally competitive Pakistan. He emphasized that the administration’s primary focus remains on youth empowerment, job creation, regional stability, and sustainable economic growth.

Addressing the broader geopolitical landscape, the chief guest remarked that Pakistan is witnessing a renewed level of international engagement. He stated that the global community is increasingly recognizing Pakistan’s untapped economic potential, a sentiment reflected in the nation’s recent efforts to invite foreign investment and improve fiscal outcomes through strategic partnerships.