ISLAMABAD, Friday, January 16, 2026 (WNP): Ambassador of Myanmar to Pakistan, H.E. Wunna Han, on Friday said that Myanmar’s 78th Independence Day stands as a moment of national reflection, pride, and renewed commitment to the ideals of freedom, unity, and progress, as the country looks toward a peaceful and prosperous future.

Addressing a ceremony marking the anniversary at a local hotel in Islamabad, the Ambassador said the day holds profound significance for the people of Myanmar.

“We celebrate the auspicious occasion of the 78th Anniversary of Myanmar’s Independence—a day that resonates deeply in the hearts of our nation,” he said.

Highlighting Myanmar’s rich civilizational legacy, Ambassador Wunna Han said the country’s history stretches across centuries, from the golden spires of Bagan to the tranquil waters of Inle Lake. He described Myanmar as a mosaic of diverse traditions, languages, and faiths, noting that its cultural heritage serves not only as a source of national pride but also as a bridge connecting Myanmar with the wider world.

He added that Myanmar’s classical dance, traditional handicrafts, and Buddhist architecture remain living symbols of a nation that honors its past while confidently embracing the future.

The Ambassador also underscored the enduring friendship between Myanmar and Pakistan, describing bilateral relations as being rooted in mutual respect, cultural exchange, and longstanding cooperation.

He recalled that Pakistan was the first country to recognize Myanmar, with diplomatic relations established on August 14, 1947—the same day Pakistan achieved independence.

Tracing historic milestones, he noted that Myanmar’s first Ambassador to Pakistan, U Pe Khin, was the first foreign envoy to present credentials to the Founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, in Karachi. He further recalled that Myanmar’s Independence Day reception on January 4, 1948, held at the Karachi Club with Quaid-e-Azam as Chief Guest, was the first-ever diplomatic national day reception in Pakistan. U Pe Khin later served as the first Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Karachi for nearly a decade, reflecting the depth of bilateral ties.

Ambassador Wunna Han also referred to shared historical and cultural links, including the exile of the last Mughal Emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar, to Rangoon (now Yangon) in 1858. He said the renowned Urdu poet’s tomb, located near the Shwedagon Pagoda, is well preserved and regularly visited by Pakistani leaders as a mark of respect.

Expressing appreciation for Pakistan’s efforts to preserve Buddhist heritage, the Ambassador praised the Gandhara Civilization sites in Taxila, the Swat Valley, and Peshawar, describing them as invaluable treasures of global historical significance.

He said Pakistan and Myanmar continue to cooperate in key areas such as education, trade, and people-to-people exchanges, adding that close community interactions have further strengthened mutual goodwill and understanding.

Outlining Myanmar’s vision ahead, Ambassador Wunna Han said his country aims to deepen cultural diplomacy, expand economic collaboration, strengthen educational partnerships, and enhance regional cooperation across South and Southeast Asia.

“We believe that Myanmar and Pakistan, working hand in hand, can contribute meaningfully to a more peaceful and interconnected world,” he said, expressing confidence that the friendship between the two nations will continue to flourish. “May our nations walk together on the path of progress, peace, and prosperity.”