As Pakistan Day celebrations are underway on Sunday, President Asif Ali Zardari said Pakistan\u2019s armed forces were ready to render any kind of sacrifice as he paid tribute to the armed forces and law enforcement agencies for giving unprecedented sacrifices.<\/p>\n
This day commemorates the Lahore Resolution passed on March 23, 1940, and the adoption of the first Constitution of Pakistan on March 23, 1956.<\/p>\n
While speaking at a Pakistan Day military parade at Aiwan-i-Sadr, President Zardari said: \u201cPakistan is facing geo-political challenges, while their brave armed forces, with the support of the nation, have been giving unprecedented sacrifices.\u201d<\/p>\n
He said that India had always tried to cast an evil eye on Pakistan while Khawarij and other terrorists\u2019 outfits wanted to achieve their evil designs, according to the Associated Press of Pakistan.<\/p>\n
However, the nation and armed forces were standing in unison and would foil their nefarious designs, he added.<\/p>\n
The president stated that fifth-generation warfare had turned into a challenge, adding that Pakistan had the capacity to overcome difficulties.<\/p>\n
He stressed the need to strengthen defence and boost economic sectors, including agriculture. He termed the youth an \u201casset of the nation\u201d and urged the need to equip them with research-based education and the latest technological training.<\/p>\n
The president said that Pakistan\u2019s foreign policy was based upon ensuring stability and peace, adding that the country wanted strong ties with its neighbours and the international community based upon mutual respect and shared goals of prosperity.<\/p>\n
He reiterated Pakistan\u2019s solidarity with \u201cKashmiri brethren and sisters who had been bracing Indian atrocities\u201d and reaffirmed that Pakistan would continue raising its voice at all global fora for the Kashmiris\u2019 right to self-determination.<\/p>\n
He also urged all provincial governments to focus on social welfare initiatives.<\/p>\n
The military parade was attended by President Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, three services chiefs, top military brass, federal ministers, parliamentarians and members of the diplomatic corps.<\/p>\n
The ceremony in Islamabad formally began with the national anthem. Fighter jets of the Pakistan Air Force presented a fly-past at the ceremony<\/p>\n
The Pakistan Air Force Karakoram-8 (K-8) aircraft team performs aerobatic manoeuvres during the national day parade as they perform a fly-past over the President\u2019s House in Islamabad on March 23. \u2014 AFP
\nIn his earlier message to the nation, President Zardari had urged every Pakistani to rise above differences, reject division and negativity, and work together to build a prosperous, inclusive and just Pakistan, according to state-run Radio Pakistan.<\/p>\n
He congratulated the entire nation and said that the same spirit that led to the creation of Pakistan can propel us toward a brighter tomorrow.<\/p>\n
The president said the road ahead is challenging, but not impossible. He added that the true strength of Pakistan lies in its people, their resilience, hard work and patriotism that have carried this nation through the toughest of times.<\/p>\n
President Zardari emphasised that in today\u2019s world, Pakistan must navigate complex realities, tackle economic pressures, and pursue sustainable development.<\/p>\n
President Zardari today is set to present national awards, which were announced for 104 Pakistanis and foreigners on Pakistan\u2019s 78th Independence Day last year in recognition of their services, excellence, and sacrifices in their respective fields.<\/p>\n
PM\u2019s message
\nMeanwhile, PM Shehbaz said that with the right policies, dedicated efforts, and national unity, Pakistan can achieve economic prosperity, uphold social justice, and secure its rightful place among the nations of the world.<\/p>\n
He said this day stands as a defining moment in the history of South Asia\u2019s Muslims.<\/p>\n
He said that guided by the inspiring leadership of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, they envisioned a state where Muslims could live with dignity, freedom, and self-respect \u2014 a land shaped by their aspirations and values.<\/p>\n
He said this year Pakistan Day falls in Ramazan, which is a month of deep spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and renewed commitment to faith.<\/p>\n
The premier said it is a time that reinforces our collective will and serves as a powerful reminder of the values of sacrifice and perseverance \u2014 principles embedded in our nation\u2019s very foundation.<\/p>\n
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said: \u201cWe pay tribute to and honour the unwavering and courageous efforts, vision, and determination of our ancestors that resulted in the establishment of an independent Pakistan.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cPakistan is the identity we have forged through tremendous sacrifices. United as one nation, we vow to defend and safeguard it. I call upon my fellow Pakistanis to excel wherever you may be, your achievements represent Pakistan\u2019s achievements,\u201d he was quoted as saying in a statement posted on X by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.<\/p>\n
He said: \u201cLet us also honour the struggle and exceptional sacrifices of our Kashmiri brothers and sisters in their quest for the inalienable right to self-determination.\u201d<\/p>\n
The foreign minister also extended his greetings to Pakistanis living abroad and commended their patriotism.<\/p>\n
Nation continues to progress under banner of democracy: Armed forces
\nMeanwhile, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) General Sahir Shamshad Mirza and the services chiefs termed March 23, 1940 a \u201cdefining moment\u201d in Pakistan\u2019s history.<\/p>\n
In a message issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), they noted: \u201cBy the grace of Almighty Allah, our nation continues to progress under the banner of democracy, upholding the eternal principles of Islam.\u201d<\/p>\n
Extending heartfelt congratulations to the nation on the 85th anniversary of Pakistan Day, the armed forces said the day \u201ccrystallised our collective vision and set the course for the creation of an independent homeland\u201d.<\/p>\n
\u201cWith steadfast determination and divine guidance, Pakistan remains resolute in fortifying its democratic institutions and safeguarding the well-being of its citizens,\u201d the statement asserted.<\/p>\n
\u201cRooted in faith, guided by hope, and strengthened by resilience, this occasion epitomises the unwavering resolve of the Pakistani people,\u201d it highlighted.<\/p>\n
The armed forces reaffirmed their \u201cunwavering commitment to protecting our sacred frontiers and upholding the sovereignty of our beloved motherland\u201d.<\/p>\n
They noted that Pakistan stood as a responsible and resolute member of the global community \u2014 advocating peace, stability, and cooperation.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe shall continue to uphold and defend the peace that defines our national character, ensuring that Pakistan remains a beacon of harmony in the world. Pakistan is synonymous with peace, and we shall preserve and protect it \u2014 at all costs, Insha\u2019Allah.\u201d<\/p>\n
The message concluded with \u201cPakistan Armed Forces Zindabad\u201d and \u201cPakistan Paindabad\u201d.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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