Pakistan’s top leadership on Thursday called for national unity, economic and governance reforms and greater efforts for peace as the country marked its Independence Day.
The day began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes at provincial headquarters, while a change-of-guards ceremony was held at the mausoleum of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi.
In his message, President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to the leaders of the Pakistan Movement, martyrs and security personnel, saying independence was not only a historic achievement but also a responsibility for every generation. He stressed the need to strengthen the economy, improve education and healthcare, create opportunities for youth and reform institutions.
Referring to last year’s conflict with India, the president said Pakistan sought peace but had the resolve and capability to defend its sovereignty. He called for disputes to be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy and reiterated Pakistan’s support for a peaceful settlement of the Kashmir dispute in line with UN resolutions.
On Afghanistan, Zardari accused the interim Afghan government of allowing militant groups to operate from its soil and warned that Pakistan’s armed forces were capable of defending the country against such threats.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the government’s economic progress, saying Pakistan had achieved stability and was moving towards development. He cited increased remittances, while identifying IT, innovation, industrial and agricultural growth, employment and skills development as key priorities.
The prime minister also praised the armed forces for their role during Marka-i-Haq and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to defending its national interests and promoting regional peace. He called on political parties and all sections of society to work together for national unity and progress.
Meanwhile, the armed forces, in a message issued by ISPR, paid tribute to the Quaid, martyrs, veterans and law enforcement personnel. The military leadership reaffirmed its commitment to defending Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, upholding the Constitution and maintaining peace and stability.
The armed forces said Pakistan’s strength lay in the unity of its people and urged citizens to uphold the principles of faith, unity and discipline while working towards a secure, stable and prosperous country.
