On the occasion of Pakistan Day, the country”s leadership reaffirmed a firm commitment to eliminating terrorism,
In separate messages, President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, and other senior figures commemorated the day by honouring the national heroes who sacrificed for the creation and stability of Pakistan.
President Zardari, reaffirming Pakistan”s resolve against security threats, stressed that no group would be permitted to use foreign soil to act against the country. He noted that despite early challenges, the nation had made significant progress in building strong institutions and enhancing its defence capabilities.
Elaborating on the anti-terror stance, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar stated that Pakistan remains firmly committed to eradicating the menace of terrorism. He specified that “our actions inside Afghanistan against the menace of Fitna-al-Hindustan and Fitna-ul-Khwarij are directed towards this goal,” paying tribute to the soldiers sacrificing their lives in its pursuit.
This sentiment was echoed by the heads of the Armed Forces. Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, along with the naval and air chiefs, declared that the military, alongside a resilient public and law enforcement agencies, remains “united and unwavering in our resolve to eradicate the threats to Pakistan”s security.”
On the diplomatic front, the Prime Minister linked sustainable peace in South Asia to the just resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue. He asserted that Pakistan would continue to extend moral, political, and diplomatic support to the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
Deputy Prime Minister Dar also underscored this commitment, stating Pakistan would provide moral and diplomatic support until the people of IIOJK attain their inalienable right to self-determination.
Regarding the economy, Prime Minister Sharif said his government has steered the country towards sustainable growth despite numerous challenges. Mr Dar referenced ongoing “austerity measures,” expressing hope that the nation will collectively navigate the challenge.
The leadership universally paid homage to the nation”s founders, with Information Minister Attaullah Tarar expressing gratitude to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Dr Muhammad Iqbal. The President and Prime Minister acknowledged that Pakistan “stands as a testament to the wisdom, determination, perseverance, and sacrifices of our ancestors.”
The military chiefs noted that the 23rd of March 1940 “stands out as a defining moment in our history as it crystallized our collective vision and set the course for the creation of an independent homeland.”