PM urges unity of nation to achieve objectives of the creation of Pakistan. PHOTO: AFP
President Mamnoon Hussain said on Friday despite facing a number of challenges the nation stands alongside the Pakistan Army against the meance of terrorism.
“Today, hoisting of the national flag has recalled the sacrifices of our forefathers,” Mamnoon said during his address at the event of the Independence Day celebrations at Convention Centre in Islamabad.
Read: Independence day celebrations: Flag to be hoisted at Mazar-e-Quaid
“Sir Syed Ahmed Khan toiled for education, Poet of the East Allama Muhammad Iqbal envisioned a great homeland and Qaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah worked hard to turn Iqbal’s dream into reality,” the president said.
Further, the president said that our forefathers paid enormous sacrifices for the creation of this country and it is because of their countless sacrifices that we gained independence.
President Mamnoon urged the Pakistani nation to follow in the footsteps of the nation’s forefathers and work together for the betterment of the country.
“Illiteracy and corruption are some of the many challenges that our country is facing, however, we will soon be able to overcome these challenges,” he claimed, adding that the war against terrorism will continue until the elimination of terrorism from the country.
Furthermore, the president said that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is not only the favour of Pakistan but the whole region will get the benefits of the project. “The CPEC will bring prosperity in the region.”
“Pakistan wants to resolve all the longstanding disputes with India, including that of Kashmir, through dialogue,” he said regarding Kashmir issue.
Read: Independence Day zeal: Martial arts teacher preparing gigantic flag for August 14
The president lauded the prevalence of the ‘culture of tolerance’ among the political parties, adding unanimous decisions are being taken on national issues which is a good omen.
“We hope that every coming day will bring us a better future,” he added.
President, PM felicitate nation on Independence Day
President Mamnoon Hussain and Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif felicitated the nation on Independence Day and called for unity to achieve the aims and objectives of the creation of Pakistan, Radio Pakistan reported.
In their messages to the nation, both the president and prime minister said that Allama Iqbal’s dream of an independent and sovereign nation had been realised due to the great leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
President Mamnoon Hussain said the Pakistani nation is celebrating the 69th Independence Day with the conviction that this day would be a harbinger of political, economic and social stability.
Read: Google, Facebook join Pakistanis in celebrating Independence Day
Meanwhile, PM Nawaz said August 14 was the day of self-accountability and we should reflect on our past mistakes and learn from them. Speaking on the subject of terrorism, the premier said the government was determined to end the menace of terrorism and Operation Zarb-e-Azb reflected their resolve. Further, he appealed to the nation to continue the struggle to make Pakistan a strong and prosperous country with the power of unity, faith and discipline.
Flag hoisting and change of guards ceremonies
The day began with special prayers for the progress of the country and flag hoisting ceremonies in the federal and provincial capitals and scores of other government installations across Pakistan.
Change of guards ceremonies were held at mausoleums of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Muhammad Iqbal early on Friday morning.
A contigent of Pakistan Navy Cadets assumed guard duty at Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi whereas Pakistan Army 2-Baloch Regiment took over the charge from Punjab Rangers at the mausoleum of Allama Iqbal in Lahore.
Read: Political parties to hold rallies on Aug 14
Further, floral wreaths were laid at the graves of both the national leaders.
Award for excellence
On the occasion of the 69th Independence Day, President Mamnoon Hussain has conferred 156 civil awards on citizens of Pakistan as well as foreign nationals for showing excellence and courage in their respective fields. The investiture ceremony will take place on Pakistan Day, 23rd March, 2016, said a statement.
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