Today, we are celebrating our 60th Independence Day, the day on which Muslims of Indian subcontinent won a separate homeland to freely profess and practice their religion of Islam. It was a result of hard fought struggle. We are gratified by the unflinching efforts of the then Muslim leaders commandeered by Mohammad Ali Jinnah — the Quaid e-Azam. We also salute thousands of Muslims who gave their lives and livelihood for the sake of freedom of the coming generations.
Aug. 14 reminds us of not only our past but also shows us a future course to follow — a course which commensurate with the democratic struggle of Quaid-e-Azam, a road which leads to an ideal society and a path that takes us to fulfill the aspirations of the common man of our beloved country. With the determination of our people and sincere resolve of the present leadership, we have not only adopted the right and progressive path to success but also managed to achieve commendable progress on all fronts of our social and economic progress in a very short span of time.
President Gen. Pervez Musharraf and Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz with their clear vision and sheer hard work are today leading Pakistan to enlightened moderation, progressive democracy, steady economic development and above all take a modern and contemporary approach to solve the problems of the common man. Regionally and internationally Pakistan is well respected for its achievements.
Last year the nation suffered a great loss in terms of human lives as well as infrastructure due to the most horrible earthquake of South Asia. We have recovered with the supreme commitment and determination of our people as well as the earnest and timely assistance provided by the brotherly countries of the world. Development programs in the earthquake-hit areas are still going on and it is hoped that it will be completed soon. In addition, Pakistan has succeeded to control effectively the growth of extremism and terrorism though it had to sacrifice more than a thousand lives to rein in the forces of fanaticism.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have always enjoyed excellent bilateral relations. The eternal bond of religion and cultural similarities and the people to people contacts has really cemented these relations. Last year was a milestone for our bilateral relation as King Abdullah visited Pakistan and soon after his visit, Crown Prince Sultan was also in Pakistan. This indicates the importance the brotherly country of Saudi Arabia attaches to Pakistan. Similarly, President Musharraf, Prime Minister Aziz along with entire nation of Pakistan holds the Saudi leadership and the Kingdom in great esteem as they share the same goal for the progress of Muslim Ummah and development of our region. Hence, cooperation in all fields of life between the two brotherly countries is growing at a faster pace.
I advise the Pakistani expatriate community in this country, the birth place of our Prophet (pbuh), that they should work with more enthusiasm and honesty for its further development, as it is a second home to all Pakistanis. I also acknowledge, as Ambassador of Pakistan to Saudi Arabia, that my duty in this country is a source of pride for me and Insha’allah with my team will try my best to further strengthen the existing very good bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. It is needless to say that my Pakistani brethrens cooperation in this regard is essential.
Pakistan Zindabad
Long Live Pakistan-Saudi Friendship
Adm. (retired) Shahid Karimullah
Ambassador