As the nation observes Independence Day this Friday, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has offered his formal greetings to the citizenry, honoring the historical figures and the profound sacrifices that paved the way for Pakistan’s establishment. The Prime Minister emphasized that this 79th anniversary serves as a moment to reflect on the journey toward self-governance and the enduring values that define the country.
Reflecting on the milestone, Prime Minister Sharif stated, “Today, on the festive occasion of Independence Day, I extend my warmest and heartfelt felicitations to all my fellow Pakistanis at home and abroad.” He expressed deep gratitude for the gift of freedom, noting that the nation remains thankful for the sovereignty achieved on August 14, 1947, which allowed the people to live with dignity and align their lives with their cultural and religious principles.
The Prime Minister paid homage to the architects of the state, specifically citing the Father of the Nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and the Poet of the East, Allama Muhammad Iqbal. He remarked that the dream of an independent homeland was realized through the statesmanship of Jinnah, the unwavering resolve of the Pakistan Movement’s leadership, and the immense hardships endured by the forefathers who sought a life of freedom and honor.
Highlighting the legal framework of the nation, Sharif noted that the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan ensures fundamental rights for every citizen. He asserted that the state, guided by Islamic teachings and Jinnah’s vision, guarantees equal freedom for all individuals, regardless of their caste, creed, or color, ensuring that the country remains a place where citizens can shape their futures in accordance with their own values.
Shafqat Ali Khan, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE, joined in the celebrations by extending his own greetings to the Pakistani community residing across the Emirates. He noted that the 80th anniversary of the movement’s inception is a time to commemorate the determination of those who secured a path for self-determination. Ambassador Khan expressed his profound appreciation for the UAE’s leadership and its people, citing their visionary guidance and the warm hospitality provided to the Pakistani diaspora, which now exceeds 2.2 million individuals.
The Ambassador further underscored the strength of the bilateral relationship between the two nations, describing the UAE as a cherished second home. He highlighted that the fraternal ties, built upon mutual trust and shared values, continue to expand across diverse sectors including defense, investment, economics, and culture, noting that the partnership grows stronger with each passing year.
Hussain Muhammad, the Consul General of Pakistan in Dubai, also shared his sentiments, offering warm greetings to the community in Dubai and the Northern Emirates. He took the opportunity to acknowledge the significant contributions of expatriates, praising their professionalism, hard work, and dedication. He noted that these efforts have not only earned respect for the Pakistani people but have also bolstered the nation’s standing abroad.
Concluding his remarks, the Consul General emphasized the dual role played by the diaspora. Beyond the vital support provided to their families through remittances, he described the community members as essential ambassadors who strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Pakistan and the UAE. He encouraged the community to continue their role in fostering mutual understanding and maintaining the robust ties that define the relationship between the two countries.
“As Pakistan marks completion of 79 years of independence, I extend my cordial greetings to the entire nation.
“I wish to express my profound gratitude to the wise leadership and the people of the United Arab Emirates for their enduring friendship, visionary leadership and generous hospitality extended to the Pakistani community
We remain profoundly grateful to Allah Almighty for blessing us with the invaluable gift of freedom in the form of our beloved homeland, Pakistan!
Today, as a nation, we pay our earnest tribute to the leaders, stalwarts and workers of the Pakistan Movement and to our forefathers who made determined efforts to turn the dream of a free motherland into a reality.
“The inspiring political struggle of the leaders of the Pakistan Movement united the Muslims of the subcontinent around the common objective of an independent homeland.
Our forefathers endured immense hardships and made unparalleled sacrifices, ultimately bringing the struggle for freedom to a successful conclusion.
“We pay tribute to the countless martyrs whose sacrifices made this dream a reality, and we remain forever indebted to their courage and conviction.
Source: Gulf Today
