President Zardari calls on Pakistanis to build on independence legacy as nation marks 79th anniversary
President Asif Ali Zardari honored the sacrifices of Pakistan's founding generation and urged citizens to strengthen democracy, economy and regional peace in his Independence Day message.
Remembering the sacrifices
President Zardari paid tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the leaders and workers of the Pakistan Movement. The creation of Pakistan came at an extraordinary human cost, with the 1947 partition resulting in the displacement of approximately 12 to 15 million people across the new borders in one of the largest mass migrations in human history.
The Pakistan Movement had formally gained momentum with the Lahore Resolution in March 1940, when the Muslim League passed the Pakistan Resolution at Minto Park in Lahore, calling for independent states in Muslim-majority regions.
President Zardari emphasized that independence represents not only a historic achievement but also an ongoing responsibility.
The Pakistan that was created through the democratic will of its people must continue to grow stronger, more secure and more prosperous.
Regional diplomacy and peace
The president highlighted Pakistan's role in facilitating regional dialogue and de-escalation efforts. He stressed that the country has effectively used its diplomatic channels and strategic position to encourage peaceful resolution of disputes at a time when wider conflict could have serious regional consequences.
We believe that disputes, no matter how serious, must ultimately be addressed through dialogue and diplomacy,President Zardari said, adding that Pakistan's security is linked to regional and global stability.
On the Kashmir issue, the president reiterated Pakistan's position, stating the country will continue to support a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with the aspirations of its people and relevant United Nations resolutions. UN Security Council Resolution 47, adopted on April 21, 1948, along with resolutions from 1948 and 1949, provide for a free and impartial plebiscite to determine the future of Jammu and Kashmir.
Domestic priorities
President Zardari outlined key domestic priorities, emphasizing the need to strengthen Pakistan's economy, create opportunities for young people, improve education and skills, and implement governance, economic and social reforms to ensure development benefits reach every part of the country.
He stressed that national progress must be measured in practical terms that improve citizens' lives.
It means a young person finding the skills and opportunity to build a career. It means a family being able to access quality education and healthcare. It means farmers, workers, traders and businesses being able to plan for the future with greater confidence.
President Zardari concluded his message by calling upon all Pakistanis to contribute to the country's progress in whatever field they serve, invoking divine blessings for Pakistan's protection, peace and prosperity.
