Pakistani ambassador Kohdayar Marri wrote to Việt Nam News on the country's National Day (March 23)

This day commemorates the historic Lahore Resolution adopted on March 23, 1940.

That moment marked a defining milestone in the political awakening of the Muslims of the subcontinent. It set in motion a journey that led to the creation of Pakistan. It is a reminder of the ideals of self-determination, dignity, and democratic aspiration upon which our nation was founded.

I have said this before and I repeat it sincerely: it is an honour to serve in Việt Nam. I have now spent nearly two years in this beautiful country, and the admiration I feel for it continues to deepen. Việt Nam is a land of remarkable resilience, cultural richness and extraordinary warmth of its people.

Kachura Lake in Skardu Valley. Photo Tehsin Razi

In many ways, Pakistan and Việt Nam share a number of striking similarities. Both of our nations emerged from difficult historical struggles and endured periods of hardship before achieving stability and growth. Both of our peoples understand the value of perseverance, national unity and the determination to shape our own destiny. And both countries today are dynamic societies that are balancing respect for tradition with an ambitious vision for the future.

Pakistan itself is a country of remarkable diversity. From the vast coastline along the Arabian Sea to dense forests, sweeping deserts, fertile plains and some of the highest mountain ranges in the world, including the majestic K2, our geography is as varied as our cultures. Within this landscape live communities whose traditions, languages, music, cuisine, and arts reflect centuries of history and interaction.

What most visitors to Pakistan often discover is something even more memorable than the landscape: the hospitality of its people. Welcoming guests is deeply embedded in our culture. Whether one travels through Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, or Azad Jammu and Kashmir, one will encounter the same spirit of generosity and respect for guests.

Relations between Pakistan and Việt Nam have been developing steadily over the years. Our cooperation is expanding in trade, investment, education and cultural exchange.

There remains tremendous potential for collaboration between our business communities. Pakistani companies are keen to expand their presence in Việt Nam, and we equally welcome Vietnamese enterprises exploring opportunities in Pakistan. From textiles and agriculture to technology and manufacturing, there are many areas where joint ventures and partnerships can thrive.

We are also working actively to improve connectivity between our two countries. The prospect of direct air links between Pakistan and Vietnam is an exciting development that would significantly enhance tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. Such connectivity would bring our peoples closer and allow them to experience firsthand the beauty and richness of each other’s countries.

Nanga Parbat in Fairy Meadows. Photo Tehsin Razi

Pakistan holds Việt Nam and its people in the highest esteem. Our diplomatic relationship has a proud history, and Pakistan was among the countries that recognised Việt Nam in 1972. Since then, our friendship has continued to grow on the foundations of mutual respect and shared aspirations.

In recent years, there have been efforts made in exchanging literature and arts between both countries, to share the core of our cultures and civilisation. Bridging the gaps that exist geographically. Pakistan has been busy developing its global diplomacy over the decades, just like Việt Nam. Now it is time to find more common ground and expand our friendship further. For the average person in each country to be familiar with the cuisine, the clothes, the music and traditions. 

In an era of growing global turmoil, it is wiser to strengthen and deepen existing friendships. It provides a stronger footing during times of instability and great global despair. Knowing you have partners through good times as well as bad, who support you through your most difficult times. 

The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan is proud to be working hard to continue to bring both nations together. Finding and opening up opportunities for citizens of both countries to succeed and prosper.

It has been my honour and pleasure to be given this task by my government. I look forward to accomplishing many milestones during my time in Việt Nam, while simultaneously exploring the country, to learn more about it and its warm hearted, kind and welcoming people. VNS