As Pakistan Day celebrations are under way, President Asif Ali Zardari has stressed upon the nation to participate in the nation-building process actively, embracing the values of hard work, integrity, and compassion.
This day commemorates the Lahore Resolution passed on March 23, 1940, and the adoption of the first Constitution of Pakistan on March 23, 1956.
Speaking at a parade in Islamabad, President Zardari honoured the commitment and sacrifices made by Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah and his compatriots.
He noted that at this time, Pakistan is facing a confluence of economic, social and political challenges, including an increasing population, climate change, unemployment and poverty.
“I am happy that after elections, a democratic government has been established. It is our collective responsibility to unite and find a solution to these issues,” he said.
“It is my faith that, just like we have risen to challenges in the past, we will take Pakistan out from these challenges today also.”
He further remarked that the Pakistani people are “hard working and intelligent” and that the youth will make great use of the resources at their disposal for the country’s progress and a brighter future.
The president was hopeful that the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) would be a positive step for the nation’s economy, particularly in areas of foreign investment, agriculture, livestock, minerals, mining, information technology and the energy sector.
He further requested all political parties to set aside their political differences and work together for the nation’s progress and well-being.
President Zardari stressed that the key to durable peace in South Asia is the resolution of the Kashmir dispute in accordance with the UN Security Council resolutions.
“In our region, one of the main reasons for instability is the Indian illegal occupation of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said. “We condemn the brutalities, human rights violations carried out by the Indian government against innocent and unarmed Kashmiri people.”
He reminded the people of India-held Kashmir that Pakistan will “always stand by them in their just struggle against tyranny.”
