Today, we are celebrating our 60th Independence Day. On this auspicious and happy occasion; I extend my heartiest felicitations to the Pakistani community living in the brotherly country of Saudi Arabia.
Pakistan emerged on 14th August, 1947 as a separate state on the map of the world after a long and arduous struggle by Muslims of subcontinent under the able leadership of Quaid-e-Azan Muhammad Ali Jinnah. His principles of Unity, Faith and Discipline gave them the courage to face and overcome any difficult situation and enabled them to achieve the paramount cause i.e. independent country where they could live according to the tenets of Islam.
Only united, strong and progressive countries can face any external or internal threat to its sovereignty, Now, as a nation it is our duty to make Pakistan stronger, prosperous and progressive country.
We can achieve these objectives by following our religion Islam and Quaid’s golden principles of Unity, Faith and Discipline.
Today is the day of prayer, rejoicing and pledge. We have to examine our strengths and weaknesses. 14th August reminds us the struggle and sacrifices of our forefathers.
This day demands that we should stand together as a nation, united to face the challenges with courage and fortitude and the pledge that we will spare no effort in making Pakistan a truly modern, progressive, enlightened and democratic Islamic welfare state.
Alhamdulillah, far-sighted, consistent and transparent policies and reforms over the last eight years have resulted in economic stability,, recognition of Pakistan in international community as enlightened, moderate and progressive democratic state.
There is an elected government and representatives of the people are present at all tiers, from the national and provincial, down to the grass roots level, Defense of the country is now impregnable.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia enjoy excellent bilateral relations. These relations have been further strengthened by the eternal bond of religion, geographical proximity and presence of large number of Pakistanis.
There is mutual cooperation at regions and international fora on issues of common concern of the two brotherly countries as well as Muslim Ummah. Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah’s visit to Pakistan last year gave a boost to the fraternal relations. Soon after king’s visit, Crown Prince Sultan visited Pakistan. Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz visited Kingdom in December 2006. President Pervez Musharraf visited Saudi Arabia twice during the last months. This indicates the importance of warm and cordial relations between the two brotherly countries.
I appreciate the support and help at each and every step to the Pakistani community by King Abdullah ibn Abdul Aziz, the Crown Prince Sultan ibn Abdul Aziz, the government and the people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
It will be unfair if I fail to mention the contribution of the expatriates in the economic development of Pakistan as well as the host country. Pakistani expatriates are the real representatives of their country and ideals.
Taking advantage of this opportunity, I urge the Pakistani community living in Saudi Arabia to abide by the laws of the host country, work with more enthusiasm, honesty, dedication and present the best image of Pakistan.
As Ambassador of Pakistan, I will spare no effort in furthering the existing brotherly relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Shahid Karimullah
Ambassador
Islamic Republic of Pakistan