The President of the Pakistan-administered state of Azad Kashmir and Ambassador of Pakistan visits Longford

The President of the Pakistan-administered state of Azad Kashmir, Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry, and Ambassador of Pakistan visits Longford
Successful visit as Pakistani-Longfordians celebrated

Press Release
13 June 2022

Longford County Council was delighted to welcome President of the Pakistan-administered state of Azad Kashmir, Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry and the Ambassador of Pakistan to Longford on Thursday, 9 June.

President Chaudhry and the Ambassador fulfilled a number of engagements during their visit. The invitation came about as a result of Longford County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr Peggy Nolan reaching out to His Excellency.

Meetings and activities
President Chaudhry and the Ambassador were welcomed to County Longford by Cathaoirleach Cllr Peggy Nolan. The first meeting took place at Longford County Council where the President and Ambassador were shown around Longford County Council buildings, including the Council Chamber. Longford County Council Chief Executive Paddy Mahon was also in attendance.

Following this, the President and Ambassador visited St. Mel’s Cathedral, which included a tour led by Father James Mc Kiernan. The President and Ambassador learned of the history of the Cathedral including details of the restoration works carried out after the fire destroyed the Cathedral in 2009. Afterwards, the President and Ambassador met with Deputy Joe Flaherty in the Council offices where they sought support for Jammu and Kashmir highlighting the occupation and treatment of Kashmiris.

Developing relationships
One of the key themes that emerged from the discussions included the many Pakistani people that have contributed to County Longford. This includes the proud and recent appointment of Aughancliffe’s Shairaz Hussain as Honorary Advisor to President Chaudhry.
Speaking following the visit, Cathaoirleach Cllr Peggy Nolan said she was incredibly happy to welcome the President and Ambassador to Longford. “This visit allows for us to celebrate the contribution of Pakistani people in our county and for strengthening our ties with Pakistani people in our communities. I want to pay tribute to President Chaudhry and the Ambassador for sharing their time with us. I hope to welcome them again to Longford in the future.” Longford County Council extends its thanks to the Pakistani community who went above and beyond to ensure the President and Ambassador was treated to a warm Longford welcome during their visit.

ENDS

All media queries should be directed to the Longford County Council Communications Officer via mediaenquiries@longfordcoco.ie or by calling 043 334 4217.