By Adnan Rafique
ISLAMABAD: The speakers on Thursday emphasized that Nelson Mandela’s life and work serve as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the power of determination and the impact of individual efforts on society.
The Centre for Afghanistan Middle East and Africa (CAMEA) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) organized an event to commemorate Nelson Mandela International Day.
The event was moderated by Ms. Amina Khan, Director CAMEA. The speakers included Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General ISSI; Mr.Philip Riley, Acting High Commissioner of South Africa to Pakistan; Mr. Aftab Hassan Khan, High Commissioner of Pakistan to South Africa; and Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman BoG, ISSI.
In his remarks, Ambassador Sohail Mahmood described Nelson Mandela as one of the most iconic figures of our times, whose epic struggle against apartheid and relentless efforts for equality, justice, and peace inspire many. He highlighted Mandela’s special affinity for Pakistan and emphasized the importance of aligning mutual endeavours with his vision of Pakistan-South Africa relations. Ambassador Sohail Mahmood recalled Mandela’s admiration for Quaid-e-Azam Mohammed Ali Jinnah’s constitutional struggle against British colonial rule after reading Stanley Wolpert’s book during his imprisonment days, and his vow to himself to visit Pakistan as the first country after getting freed to pay homage to Jinnah. He highlighted Mandela’s two visits to Pakistan in 1992 and 1999 including his visit to the ISSI on 3 October 1992, affirming the strong bonds between Pakistan and South Africa.
He further highlighted that Nelson Mandela was given Pakistan’s highest civilian award, “Nishan-e-Pakistan,” in 1992, while he addressed the Joint Session of Parliament in 1999. During the address, Mandela expressed “great appreciation to the Government and people of Pakistan for their enduring and unfaltering support for the ideal of a democratic, non-racial, non-sexist South Africa.”
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood recalled that Mandela also raised his voice for the resolution of the Kashmir dispute and in support of the Palestinian cause. As we celebrate Nelson Mandela International Day, Ambassador Sohail Mahmood urged everyone to honour his memory by continuing to strive for a better world characterized by equality, justice, and the dignity of all human beings.
Amina Khan emphasized that amidst global inequality, racism, and conflicts like Gaza, Mandela’s life demonstrates the need to raise voice against injustice and embrace forgiveness. His words, “To be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others,” guide us toward freedom, justice, and respect for all.
She highlighted Mandela’s appreciation for Pakistan’s support during apartheid and acknowledged Pakistan’s resilience and commitment to peace and development, reflecting Mandela’s teachings in promoting equality and justice.
Phillip Riley stated, “Nelson Mandela International Day 2024, celebrated under the theme: ‘Combating poverty and inequality is in our hands,’ unites millions in the spirit of ‘Ubuntu,’ embracing human dignity and unity in diversity.”
He highlighted Mandela’s resilience and commitment to justice despite nearly three decades of imprisonment. As South Africa’s first black President, Mandela envisioned a ‘Rainbow Nation’ where all could pursue their aspirations.
Riley emphasized the need to combat poverty and inequality, especially in places like Palestine, calling for an end to genocide and justice for the responsible. He concluded that Nelson Mandela International Day honours Mandela’s legacy by urging global action for a better world.
Ambassador Aftab Hassan Khan described Nelson Mandela’s life as a symbol of resilience, forgiveness, and unwavering commitment to justice and equality. He highlighted Mandela’s journey from prisoner to president and his sacrifices for freedom, including his ability to forgive his oppressors and introduce the concept of a ‘Rainbow Nation’.
He also mentioned Mandela’s admiration for Pakistan’s founding father, Mohammad Ali Jinnah, and referred to Mandela’s visits to Pakistan in 1992 and 1999. Drawing parallels between Pakistan’s and South Africa’s shared dedication to justice and self-determination, Ambassador Aftab emphasized Mandela’s vision for global freedom and called for honouring his memory by striving for a world of dignity and peace.
Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, in his remarks, highlighted Nelson Mandela’s profound global impact as a figure whose life and legacy continue to inspire people worldwide. He emphasized Mandela’s journey and enduring influence beyond South Africa’s borders, noting the United Nations’ designation of July 18 as Mandela Day to honour his relentless pursuit of equality and justice. He concluded by paying tribute to Mandela’s enduring legacy, affirming his role in promoting resilience, compassion, and the ongoing quest for global equality and justice.
The event concluded with the cutting of a cake specially prepared for the occasion.
