ISLAMABAD: The Pakistani nation and the armed forces have never shied away from any sacrifice for the motherland, President Asif Ali Zardari said on Sunday and warned the Khawarij and terrorist organisations that their mischief will be thwarted.
The president was speaking at the Armed Forces Parade held at the President’s House to mark Pakistan Day. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani, Army Chief General Asim Munir, Services Chiefs, foreign ambassadors, high-ranking civil and military officials attended the parade.
President Zardari congratulated those who attended the ceremony, highlighting the importance of the day “when the Pakistani nation achieved independence after rendering numerous sacrifices.”
He stated that “we have fought back against both external and internal terrorism.
“India has always looked at Pakistan with an envious eye. I want to make it clear to the enemies, such as the Khawarij and other terrorist outfits, that the people and armed forces are united.”
The president said that efforts were being made to spread despair among the younger generation, but “we must confront this challenge. We have the capability to overcome difficulties, and we are a determined nation. We are not afraid of challenges, and despite internal and external conspiracies, we have continued to build and will keep building Pakistan.”
He said that the youth were the asset of the country. “We will create employment opportunities for the younger generation and give them latest education, research, and modern technology.”
President Zardari mentioned that Pakistan faces many geopolitical challenges, and the soldiers of the armed forces are making immense sacrifices. “Our foreign policy is based on peace and stability.”
The president stated that the people of India-occupied Kashmir would never be left alone. They have been victims of Indian terrorism for a long time. He expressed solidarity with the people of occupied Kashmir and saluted their sacrifices.
He assured them that Pakistan would raise their right to self-determination on every international forum. He urged the international community to allow Kashmiris to decide their future and emphasized that the solution to the Kashmir issue should be in accordance with the United Nations resolutions.
President Zardari also expressed solidarity with Palestine and reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong commitment to the right to self-determination for the Palestinian people. He urged the international community to take immediate and decisive action to stop the genocide of Palestinians.
The president mentioned that “our journey is not easy, but it is not impossible either. The true strength of Pakistan lies in its people. It is your steadfastness and patriotism that has always led the country out of difficult situations.”
He appealed to the people to dedicate all their energies to the country’s development.
He said, “Let us work together, rising above our differences, for a prosperous and peaceful Pakistan. Let us abandon despair and negativity, and embrace unity, truth, and hope. We need to build a Pakistan that is developed and based on justice. I pray that Allah guides us on the path of dignity, greatness, and prosperity.”
At the end of his speech, President Zardari congratulated the parade commander and organisers, stating that the event reflects national unity and dignity, presenting a glimpse of a strong Pakistan. He paid tribute to the soldiers of the three units of the armed forces “on behalf of the nation. May Allah be our supporter and helper. Long live the Pakistan Armed Forces, long live Pakistan.”
Earlier, the military parade was held at the President’s House. Pakistan Air Force fighters made a fly past on the occasion.
Read more: Nation Celebrates 85th Pakistan Day With Unity, Zeal, Fervor
