Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have called for rising beyond divisions and standing united for a Pakistan that is built on justice, equality, and service to all.
According to Radio Pakistan, in their separate messages on the 79th Independence Day of Pakistan being celebrated today, they extended heartfelt congratulations to all Pakistanis at home and abroad. They emphasized that this day is a reminder of courage, unity, and sacrifices that led to the creation of Pakistan, paying homage to the founding father, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and the workers of the Pakistan Movement for their struggle and sacrifices.
The President highlighted the nation’s renewed pride and hope as it reaffirmed its strength and unity against external aggression earlier this year. He referenced the successes in Marka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos as demonstrations of national will and unity, which bolstered Pakistan’s global stature. He also expressed solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, reiterating Pakistan’s support for their right to self-determination.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Pakistan’s freedom, describing Marka-e-Haq as a validation of the Two-Nation Theory. He stressed the importance of defending national interests, including water resources, and reiterated the nation’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and resolving issues through dialogue. He urged India to show similar resolve for resolving disputes, including the Jammu and Kashmir issue.
The Prime Minister also discussed government initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of the common man, such as reducing electricity rates. He emphasized the need for a strong and stable economy to ensure national defense and sovereignty, inviting all political parties and societal segments to unite in safeguarding national interests.
The Armed Forces, represented by Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, and Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu, extended heartfelt felicitations to the nation. They paid tribute to the founding fathers and reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty and upholding the Constitution.