The Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East & Africa (CAMEA) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) recently hosted a heartfelt farewell event in honor of H.E. Ahmad Rabaie, the outgoing Ambassador of the State of Palestine to Pakistan. The event, moderated by Ms. Amina Khan, Director CAMEA, served as a testament to the strong and enduring bonds between Pakistan and Palestine.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
In her opening remarks, Ms. Amina Khan highlighted the historical and deep-rooted ties between Pakistan and Palestine, emphasizing that these relations are built on the principles of brotherhood, solidarity, and shared struggles. She noted Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people in their quest for an independent homeland. Ms. Khan also expressed her gratitude to Ambassador Rabaie for his significant contributions to strengthening the bilateral relationship during his tenure.
A Stalwart of Pakistan-Palestine Relations
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General of ISSI, commended Ambassador Ahmad Rabaie for his tireless efforts in deepening the fraternal relations between Pakistan and Palestine. He praised the Ambassador’s dedication to promoting the just cause of the Palestinian people, particularly in the wake of the recent escalations in Gaza since October 7, 2023.
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood underscored Pakistan’s moral, historical, and political commitment to the Palestinian cause. He emphasized that Pakistan’s support for Palestine is grounded in three fundamental pillars: a moral imperative to back their struggle for independence, the guiding principles laid down by Quaid-e-Azam even before the creation of Pakistan, and Pakistan’s historically consistent stance of solidarity with the Palestinian people.
Drawing parallels between the plight of Palestinians and Kashmiris, Ambassador Mahmood highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to support Palestine through political and diplomatic channels, humanitarian aid, and advocacy at international forums such as the United Nations. He reiterated Pakistan’s steadfast position that the Palestinian people must have a sovereign and independent state based on the pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif (Jerusalem) as its capital.
Ambassador Rabaie’s Gratitude and Reflections
In an emotional address, Ambassador Ahmad Rabaie expressed his deep gratitude to Pakistan for its unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, especially following the tragic events in Gaza since October 7. He poignantly recalled the heavy toll of the conflict, with a significant number of victims being women and children, and over 150,000 Palestinians either killed or injured.
Ambassador Rabaie praised Pakistan for its swift and decisive response in the aftermath of the Gaza conflict, particularly noting the formation of a committee to send essential humanitarian aid to the affected areas. He also recognized Pakistan’s unmatched diplomatic and political support at the United Nations, which has been crucial in voicing the concerns of the Palestinian people on the global stage.
Moreover, Ambassador Rabaie was deeply moved by the active involvement of Pakistan’s youth, who have passionately raised their voices against the ongoing genocide in Palestine. He expressed hope for a brighter future and commended the efforts of the ISSI in consistently focusing on the Gaza situation and standing in solidarity with the Palestinians during these trying times.
Pakistan’s Unwavering Commitment
Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman of the Board of Governors at ISSI, concluded the event with reflections on Pakistan’s enduring support for the Palestinian cause. He recalled that this solidarity dates back to the pre-partition era when Quaid-e-Azam, the founder of Pakistan, was a staunch supporter of the Palestinian people. This historical bond has only grown stronger with time.
Ambassador Mahmood acknowledged the difficult times that Palestine is currently facing and expressed deep sympathy for the suffering of the Palestinian nation. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to the Palestinian cause, emphasizing that this support will continue to grow stronger in the face of adversity.
A Tribute to Diplomatic Excellence
The farewell event for Ambassador Ahmad Rabaie was more than just a formal goodbye; it was a poignant reminder of the enduring friendship and solidarity between Pakistan and Palestine. The event underscored Pakistan’s steadfast support for Palestine’s struggle for independence and the deep bonds that unite the two nations. As Ambassador Rabaie departs, his legacy of strengthening Pakistan-Palestine relations will undoubtedly continue to inspire future diplomatic efforts.
