Islamabad (Web Desk): President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, in their separate messages on the occasion of Pakistan's 79th Independence Day being celebrated today, have urged the nation to rise above all divisions and stand united for a Pakistan rooted in justice, equality, and service to all its citizens.
They extended heartfelt congratulations to all Pakistanis, both at home and abroad, and reflected on the immense courage, unity, and sacrifices that led to the creation of the country.
The president and the premier paid glowing tribute to the founder of the nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and to all those who contributed to the Pakistan Movement, acknowledging their efforts and sacrifices.
President Zardari expressed that this Independence Day is being observed with renewed pride and hope, particularly as the nation has demonstrated resilience and strength in the face of external threats earlier in May.
He referred to the success in Marka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos as powerful examples of national resolve and a unified purpose.
These achievements, he said, have restored public confidence in the country’s institutions, bolstered national morale, and enhanced Pakistan’s image on the global stage.
The president also reiterated Pakistan’s strong and unwavering support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, affirming continued diplomatic, moral, and political backing until their right to self-determination is achieved.
In his message, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid homage to the martyrs who laid down their lives for the country's freedom.
He noted that Marka-e-Haq was more than a military triumph—it was also a reaffirmation of the Two-Nation Theory that forms the ideological basis of Pakistan.
PM Shehbaz emphasized the need for continued vigilance to safeguard Pakistan’s national interests, including the protection of vital water resources.
The prime minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to upholding Pakistan's sovereignty and stressed the importance of peaceful coexistence and resolving regional and global issues through dialogue and diplomacy.
He called upon India to show similar intent in addressing all outstanding disputes, including the long-standing Jammu and Kashmir issue.
PM Shehbaz also shed light on the government’s ongoing initiatives aimed at improving the lives of the common people. He highlighted significant reductions in electricity tariffs as one of the steps taken to provide relief to the public. He emphasized that the government is fully mobilizing resources to meet the current economic, industrial, and technological challenges facing the country.
The premier encouraged the spirit shown during Marka-e-Haq and the Pakistan Movement to be carried forward in strengthening the national economy, which he described as fundamental to an unshakable national defence and true sovereignty.
In closing, he extended an open invitation to all political parties and societal groups to collaborate with the government in protecting and advancing national interests.