The nation is celebrating Pakistan Day today (Thursday) with its renewed commitment to take the country towards transformation into a true Islamic welfare state, in accordance with Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah's vision, and to also ensure its prosperity, progress, and a strong defence.
In their messages for the auspicious occasion, the country's president and prime minister extended their felicitations to the nation.
President Dr Arif Alvi, in his message to the nation, paid tribute to the country's founding fathers whose struggles and sacrifices led to the creation of Pakistan.
"The persecution of minorities, especially the Muslims in India; the rising wave of Hindutva and violence against Muslims; violation of human rights, and brutalities being committed by the Indian Security Forces in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) prove that the Muslim leadership of that time made a prudent decision," he said.
The president added that the day also serves as a reminder to take stock of our successes and failures as a nation.
"We still have a long way to go to ensure the rule of law, strengthen democracy, reduce inequalities in our society, empower women, provide the rights of persons with disabilities, eradicate terrorism and extremism, ensure the political and economic stability of the country, and protect the human rights of our citizens," the president said in his message.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message on Pakistan Day, has said Pakistan came into being as a result of political and constitutional struggle and its future lies in adhering to the constitution in its letter and spirit.
The Prime Minister said Pakistan is destined to achieve great heights. However, he said for this to become a reality, we have to forge unity in our ranks, equip ourselves with national purpose and vow to wage a struggle in line with the legacy of our forefathers.
He said the establishment of Pakistan was certainly a miracle of the 20th century.
The Prime Minister said as a member of international community, Pakistan has always played the role of a responsible nation in the resolution of problems facing humanity and the establishment of global peace.
