Eid messages: PM vows to pursue development agenda

Nawaz lauds the unflinching resolve shown by the country’s armed forces in combating terrorism

ISLAMABAD:

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, while felicitating the nation on Eidul Azha, has reiterated his resolve to bring to fruition the national development goals he has undertaken to deliver.

“I am grateful for the confidence the nation has reposed in me to continue pursuing our national agenda aimed at making Pakistan a prosperous country amongst the comity of nations,” he said in his Eid message.

The prime minister mentioned the difficulties faced by the people affected by recent unprecedented floods as well as the supreme sacrifices, rendered by internally displaced persons of tribal areas in the wake of Operation Zarb-e-Azb. He assured that the government will make all-out efforts to provide them utmost succour.

Premier Nawaz also lauded the unflinching resolve shown by the country’s armed forces in combating terrorism, which he said, “speaks volumes about the sacrifice they are willing to render for our freedom, well-being and honour.”

“The spirit of Eidul Azha this year may serve as a poignant reminder to the disconcerted elements… that sowing discord is diametrically opposite to the spirit of accommodation and tolerance.”

About the recent floods, the prime minister said, “Pakistanis have been and are going through ravages of unprecedented floods causing widespread devastation that witnessed a surge of public sympathy and sacrifice for the affected.” Regarding extremism, the prime minister mentioned “we also encountered vicious specter of violent extremism through the extremely laudable Operation Zarb-e-Azb, undertaken by our valiant armed forces.”

President Mamnoon Hussain also greeted the whole nation on Eidul Azha, calling upon them to promote the spirit of sacrifice, affection, tolerance, patience and brotherhood.

In his message, the president conveyed his best wishes to the nation and asked the countrymen not to forget the internally displaced persons and the flood-hit population.

The president urged the countrymen to share the joys and happiness of the Eid with them and also pay tributes to the mothers, sisters and children who had laid down their lives for motherland and the bright future of our generations.

The president said there is a need to inculcate the spirit of sacrifice and submission, love and brotherhood, sympathy and tolerance to counter the issues of terrorism and extremism.      “We should strive for the development and progress of Muslim Ummah and the well-being of human beings by keeping the regional, political, segmental and personal interests aside and following the way of life, led by our Holy Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) and the Islamic teachings.

“I pray to Allah Almighty to bless us with the joys of Eidul Azha and understand the spirit of sacrifice,” he added.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 6^th, 2014.