Among some unforgettable days in the distant past of our nation, March 23 stands as a landmark in Pakistan’s history.

Seventy four years ago, on that day, thousands of Muslims from all over the Subcontinent gathered in Lahore in pursuit of one dream, one vision and one mission.

Under the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam and other discrete founding personalities, the struggle for an independent homeland, Pakistan started with full dynamism and it concluded with its creation.

On this occasion, I feel heartfelt despondency to mention that our country is facing through hard-hitting challenges of time.

However, we should exert our sincere efforts toward making it one of the strongest nations on the world’s map.

Pakistan is bound to triumph over its predicaments sooner or later because of its people’s focused approach toward the attainment of the Jinnah’s maxim of unity, faith and discipline.

Miles away from our country, residing here in Saudi Arabia, I urge each community member to pledge and direct our struggles, hopes, aspirations and heart beats toward not only our beloved country but also Saudi Arabia. We both make the two leading Islamic countries in the world and enjoy an exemplary bond of friendship due to the similar customs, religion and culture. We both share the same feelings of strength on each other’s happiness and prosperity.

I express my cordial gratitude to Custodian of the two Holy Mosques King Abdullah and the people of the Kingdom to uphold and stand by Pakistan at all times.

May Almighty Allah shower His choicest blessings on the two strong citadels of Islam; Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and keep them safe from all calamities. Ameen! Addressing to the youth of Pakistan, I would like to say that they are its real architects. They must devote their attention toward their studies which will consequently make our country a developed and prosperous one.

With the zenith of knowledge by means of education, true dedication, peace and faith they will pave way for a developed Pakistan.

Our Nation’s Father, Muhammad Ali Jinnah quoted, “Our object should be peace within, and peace without. We want to live peacefully and maintain cordial friendly relations with the world at large.”

— Imran Raza Khan, acting principal, Pakistan International School English Section