Zardari, Shehbaz pay tribute to the resilience of the nation’s 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 determination to uphold the ideals of its founding fathers.
In separate messages on the occasion, both leaders paid tribute to the sacrifices of Pakistan Movement leaders and workers and stressed the need to strengthen democratic institutions, ensure the rule of law and pursue economic stability while confronting internal and external challenges.
President Zardari said Pakistan Day served as a reminder that unity and solidarity remain the most important elements in turning national aspirations into reality.
He recalled that on March 23, 1940, the Muslims of the subcontinent of Pakistan adopted the Pakistan Resolution, which laid the foundation for a separate homeland where they could live according to their faith and values.
Paying tribute to the sacrifices of the country’s forefathers, the President said that Pakistan had overcome numerous challenges since its establishment in 1947 through collective efforts, hard work and determination.
He highlighted achievements including the establishment of strong state institutions, the development of an impregnable defense capability and the acquisition of nuclear deterrence.
The President also referred to Pakistan’s success in fighting 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 trying to undermine peace will be dealt with decisively.
On regional issues, President Zardari condemned human rights violations in the 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 accordance with UN resolutions.
He also called for global efforts to end atrocities against Palestinians and stressed the need to resolve tensions in West Asia through dialogue and diplomacy.
Emphasizing domestic priorities, the president called for strengthening democratic institutions, reducing inequality, empowering women and eliminating extremism.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in his message said the nation had shown remarkable resilience since independence and was steadily progressing towards a brighter future despite economic and security challenges.
