Solemn Pakistan Day ceremony at Mazar-e-Quaid

Governor Hashmi, CM Shah stress stability, unity, development amid regional tensions

KARACHI:

A simple yet dignified ceremony was organised at the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah on the occasion of Pakistan Day, where Sindh's governor, chief minister, representatives of the armed forces, and other dignitaries offered Fateha and laid floral wreaths.

Talking to the media, Governor Nihal Hashmi said the foundations laid by the country's forefathers continue to guide the nation, stressing the need for economic and political stability.

He expressed the resolve to begin a journey from today to take Pakistan to new heights of development by 2040.

He said he was proud to be associated with the party of the Father of the Nation and Nawaz Sharif, adding that politics should aim to strengthen Pakistan rather than create divisions.

He said the prime minister has directed that all-out efforts be made for the development of Sindh and that no stone would be left unturned for the province's prosperity.

The governor added that the Sindh Assembly had passed the first resolution in favour of Pakistan and prayed for continued progress and prosperity of the country.

Responding to a question, he said the government cannot interfere in sub judice matters, adding that the governor's office is constitutional while public representation rests with the chief minister.

Chief Minister Shah, in his media talk, said that 86 years ago the Pakistan Resolution was adopted in Lahore. He highlighted Sindh's pivotal role in the Pakistan Movement, adding that the Sindh Assembly was the first to pass a resolution in support of the creation of Pakistan following the Lahore Resolution.

Paying tribute to national leaders, he said Zulfikar Ali Bhutto strengthened the country's defence and laid the foundation of the nuclear programme, while Benazir Bhutto further enhanced defence capabilities.

CM Shah said Pakistan today stands strong under the leadership of President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, while the armed forces remain fully vigilant under the leadership of Syed Asim Munir. He said no enemy could dare cast an evil eye on Pakistan.

Expressing concern over regional tensions, he condemned aggression against Iran and appreciated operations against terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan. He also reiterated Pakistan's stance on global issues, condemning Indian actions in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir and Israeli violence in Palestine, while stressing the need for peace in the Muslim world.

On development projects, the chief minister said that although he had been raising concerns since 2018 regarding the lack of federal development schemes for Sindh, the situation has improved under the present government. He added that Sindh has now been given development projects in the federal framework and reaffirmed his commitment to securing the province's due share.

Representatives of the three armed forces and the Karachi mayor also visited the mausoleum, while the Mazar-e-Quaid Management Board hoisted the national flag on the occasion.