Sixty-four years ago, the birth of Pakistan epitomized the successful culmination of a long and arduous struggle against heavy odds by Muslims of the subcontinent under the inspiring leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

The Quaid envisioned Pakistan as a homeland for the Muslims of South Asia where democracy, constitutionalism and rule of law would reign supreme. It was envisaged to be a country where there would be no discrimination on the basis of creed, gender and sect and where minorities would enjoy equal rights as citizens of the state and be fully integrated into the mainstream of national life.

Pakistan, today, is confronted with many challenges. The PPP-led coalition government is determined to vigorously pursue the objective of taking Pakistan along the path of prosperity, progress and democracy.

The Pakistan People’s Party has a long history of striving for the achievement of the objectives for which Pakistan was created. Countless political workers and activists have laid down their lives in the pursuit of this objective. Let us on this day join hands in upholding the principles for which Pakistan was created.

We are witnessing the power of democracy in action. Let us collectively employ the democratic power in the service of the country and people.

On this day there is also a thought that sometimes bites the soul; could we not have achieved much more if the democratic process had not been repeatedly subverted and the constitution abrogated and held in abeyance by dictators. It is also sad thought on this day that the pillars of the state validated the subversion of the constitution. The nation can take pride that it has closed that sorry chapter. Let us pledge that we will never allow the subversion of the constitution and the democratic process.

Let us on this auspicious occasion also resolve to make Pakistan a truly modern, dynamic, progressive and democratic country. Our thoughts also go to the founding fathers and all those who made untold sacrifices to make Pakistan a free, independent and sovereign country. They suffered and made sacrifices so that we could freely shape our lives and destinies in accordance with their values for which Pakistan was created.

May Almighty Allah be our Protector and Guide. Ameen!