Pakistan Independence Day
Kathleen MATTHEWS-WARD (Broadmeadows) (10:06): Today is Pakistan Independence Day, and I wish my large Pakistani diaspora a very, very happy day, and I hope they enjoy celebrations together. I also have the pleasure of hosting His Excellency Mr Wajid Hassan Hashmi, the new Consul General of Pakistan to Victoria, in Parliament today, and I welcome him and his lovely wife to Melbourne. I thank my good friend Hassaan Gul for organising today’s meeting. I am really looking forward to discussing the important issues and opportunities to strengthen relations between Pakistan and Victoria to support the diaspora living here. I really hope everyone has a wonderful day today, coming together and celebrating all the great contributions that our Pakistani community has made.