Zardari, Shehbaz pay tribute to resilience of nation, armed forces on Pakistan Day
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Photo: File
ISLAMABAD:
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday called for national unity, resilience and collective efforts to steer Pakistan through current challenges as the nation marks Pakistan Day with renewed resolve to uphold the ideals of its founding fathers.
In separate messages on the occasion, both leaders paid tribute to the sacrifices of the Pakistan Movement’s leaders and workers and emphasised the need to strengthen democratic institutions, ensure the rule of law and pursue economic stability while confronting internal and external challenges.
President Zardari said that Pakistan Day served as a reminder that unity and solidarity remain the most vital elements in transforming national aspirations into reality.
He recalled that on March 23, 1940, the Muslims of the Subcontinent adopted the Pakistan Resolution, laying the foundation for a separate homeland where they could live according to their beliefs and values.
Paying homage to the sacrifices of the country’s forefathers, the president said Pakistan had overcome numerous challenges since its creation in 1947 through collective efforts, hard work and determination.
He highlighted achievements including the establishment of strong state institutions, development of an impregnable defence capability and acquisition of nuclear deterrence.
The president also referred to Pakistan’s success in combating terrorism and its resilience during natural disasters, describing them as examples of national unity and sacrifice.
He said that despite these achievements, the country continued to face challenges on both internal and external fronts.
Referring to recent security operations, he said Pakistan had responded effectively to threats and would not allow any group to use foreign soil against its interests. He reiterated that elements sponsoring terrorism or attempting to undermine peace would be dealt with decisively.
On regional issues, President Zardari condemned human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and described Kashmir as the unfinished agenda of Partition.
He urged the international community to ensure the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination in line with United Nations resolutions.
He also called for global efforts to end atrocities against Palestinians and stressed the need for resolving tensions in West Asia through dialogue and diplomacy.
Emphasising domestic priorities, the president urged strengthening democratic institutions, reducing inequality, empowering women and eliminating extremism.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message, said the nation had demonstrated remarkable resilience since independence and was steadily progressing towards a brighter future despite economic and security challenges.
