Our forefathers rendered numerous sacrifices in man and material for the establishment of Pakistan. Their demand for a separate state was premised on the right to self-determination. They wanted a state where they could order their lives in accordance with the principles of Islam and enjoy the fruits of freedom as equal citizens of the state. Aug. 14 represents the fulfillment of aspirations of millions of Muslims.
We should be proud of the fact that our freedom struggle was fought along constitutional lines. Pakistan came into being through a political and democratic process. Unity, faith and discipline and unwavering confidence in the leadership epitomize the spirit of freedom, which infused conviction among the Muslims in their destiny. Equipped with steel-like determination and willpower, they achieved the ideal of Pakistan within a short span of seven years.
We are celebrating our 64th Independence Day at a time when the country is up against many grave challenges, the chief being rehabilitation of flood victims, the fight against terrorism, the struggling economy and ensuring political stability. The recent floods have wreaked havoc across the country causing human casualties and massively damaging roads, telecommunication infrastructure and crops.
According to the United Nations’ assessment, the total damage done by these raging floods is more than what the world suffered in the tsunami in 2004 and what Pakistan had to face in the aftermath of earthquake in October 2005. Similarly, terrorists and extremists are out to impose their exclusive and conservative agenda on the peaceful Pakistani nation.
Our national economy has been hit hard both by the ongoing war against terrorism and natural disasters.
Despite these challenges, the government and the people of Pakistan remain committed to protect their motherland. Howsoever grave these challenges may be our resolve and determination to take on these is greater. We have already traversed that road a number of times in the past and each time we came out victorious and more resolute with renewed faith in our ability to steer the ship of the state out of uncharted waters. The need of imbibing the spirit of unity, faith and discipline as a weapon to fight off these challenges cannot be overstated. Our spirit of nationalism presents a shield against the forces of extremism and terrorism and it is capable of eliminating these negative forces. I have my complete faith and trust in our people. I am sure that together we can rise to the occasion with determination and willpower.
