PM Shehbaz urges nation to remain united for Pakistan’s progress

Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message on Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day, extended greetings to the nation and overseas Pakistanis and called for unity, peace and collective efforts to advance the country’s development and prosperity.

In his Independence Day message, the prime minister said Pakistan was a great blessing of freedom bestowed by Allah Almighty. He said the country came into being through the visionary leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Allama Muhammad Iqbal and other leaders of the Pakistan Movement, coupled with the immense sacrifices made by the Muslims of the subcontinent.

Shehbaz said Pakistan provides its citizens with the opportunity to live with dignity and honour while following their religious and cultural values. He added that the Constitution and laws guarantee the fundamental rights of all citizens.

The prime minister said that despite numerous challenges, Pakistan was moving forward on the path of economic development and prosperity. He highlighted the achievements of Pakistanis in defence, economy, industry, education, science, agriculture, sports and other fields.

He described the country’s youth, skilled workers, professionals, farmers and labourers as valuable assets and said their abilities and hard work would play a key role in shaping Pakistan’s future.

Shehbaz said the government had taken difficult but necessary steps during the past two and a half years to strengthen the foundations of economic stability. He noted that remittances from overseas Pakistanis had increased by $11.3 billion over the past two years, describing the rise as a reflection of the overseas community’s confidence in government policies.

The prime minister said promoting information technology, strengthening industrial and agricultural sectors, improving public welfare, creating employment opportunities and expanding access to quality education and skills training remained among the government’s key priorities.

Paying tribute to the armed forces, Shehbaz said the nation remained proud of its military and appreciated the sacrifices made for the country’s defence. He said the armed forces, under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, demonstrated exceptional courage, determination and unity during the Markah-e-Haq and set a new example in defending the country.

He made it clear that Pakistan would not hesitate to make any sacrifice necessary to safeguard its national security, defence, water resources and other vital national interests.

The prime minister said Pakistan was increasingly being recognised internationally as a confident and dignified country with a strong voice for peace. He added that despite complex regional circumstances, Islamabad would continue contributing to efforts aimed at promoting peace, stability and cooperation in the region.

Shehbaz also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the Palestinian people and the people of Jammu and Kashmir, saying Islamabad would continue to stand by their legitimate rights. He stressed that lasting peace in South Asia required a resolution of the Kashmir dispute in accordance with relevant United Nations resolutions, international law and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

The prime minister also paid tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country. He said the nation would always remain indebted to members of the armed forces, law-enforcement agencies, veterans and all those who laid down their lives in the service of Pakistan.

Concluding his message, Shehbaz called upon the political leadership, all segments of society and the people of Pakistan to rise above differences, strengthen national unity and work together for the country’s economic progress, peace, stability and prosperity.

He urged political parties and citizens to play a constructive role in safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty and advancing its national interests.

The prime minister prayed that Allah Almighty would bless Pakistan with greater honour, stability and progress and lead the country towards a bright, prosperous and successful future.