Algerian Embassy in Islamabad Marks National Memory Day Commemorating May 8, 1945 Massacres

Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: The Embassy of Algeria in Islamabad observed the National Memory Day under the slogan “A People Who Sacrificed and Triumphed”, marking the 81st anniversary of the tragic massacres of May 8, 1945.

The commemoration ceremony was attended by embassy staff, their families, and members of the Algerian community residing in Pakistan. The national flag was hoisted, the national anthem was played, verses from the Holy Quran were recited, and a minute of silence was observed in remembrance of the martyrs.

On the occasion, Ambassador Dr. Brahim Romani highlighted the historical events of May 8, 1945, describing them as one of the darkest chapters of colonial violence during the French occupation of Algeria, which began on July 5, 1830. He recalled that the massacres in the regions of Sétif, Guelma, and Kherrata in eastern Algeria resulted in the martyrdom of approximately 45,000 civilians, including men, women, children, and the elderly.

The Ambassador emphasized the themes of patriotism, resistance, and sacrifice demonstrated by the Algerian people in their struggle for national identity, cultural preservation, and independence.

He also praised Algeria’s development achievements under the leadership of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, noting the country’s growing regional and international role as an emerging nation with strong development prospects.

The Ambassador further underlined the Algerian government’s continued commitment to its national diaspora, stressing the importance of supporting overseas communities, protecting their rights, and strengthening their connection with the homeland to ensure their active contribution to national development.

To mark the anniversary, an archival exhibition titled “Sacrifices and Resistance of the Algerian People against the Crimes of French Colonialism” was also organised. The exhibition was prepared by the General Directorate of National Archives under the Presidency of the Republic and showcased historical documents highlighting Algeria’s struggle against colonial rule.

The event served as a platform to honour the memory of Algerian martyrs, reinforce national historical consciousness, and strengthen ties between the Algerian diaspora in Pakistan and their homeland, fostering unity, solidarity, and continued engagement with the Algerian Embassy.