This event was held at the Jumeirah Carlton Tower in central London and hosted by the High Commissioner for Pakistan, Wajid Shamsul Hasan who made the opening address. The chief guest for the occasion was Eric Pickles MP, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government who delivered the key note address. Both the Chairman and Director of Conservative Friends of Pakistan attended the event and were glad to see the supportive messages expressed by both the Minister and the High Commissioner on the close relationship between Britain and Pakistan.
During the Minister's speech he made a particular point of highlighting the important contribution that the British Pakistani community have made, and continue to make in Britain; especially with regards to running businesses and the important contribution to the economy.
The Minister also touched upon the reasons as to why British Pakistanis feel a real sense of belonging in Britain, stating that 'Some of the things about Pakistan's spirit that captivate me are that strong work ethic, that sense of independence and duty. It stems from that fierce pride and determination to to stand on their own two feet and that drive and energy to be enterprising and entrepreneurial.'
He concluded by saying 'Muhammad Ali Jinnah summed it up when he said: "Character, courage, industry and perseverance are the four pillars on which the whole edifice of human life can be built." Four rules which we live by in both Britian and Pakistan. And, as we celebrate here this day, four rules that are surely the basis of our already deep, historic relationship.'