I am privileged to greet my Pakistani brothers and sisters both at home and overseas on the auspicious occasion of our 60th Independence Day.

The emergence of our beloved country Pakistan, as a sovereign state on the map of the world was the result of a long and arduous struggle by the Muslims of South Asia under the matchless leadership of our founding father, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Dynamism of the Quaid was wonderfully complemented by his personal and leadership qualities. He inspired the people by principles of unity, faith and discipline, enabling them to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds in achieving independence.

It is imperative that we, the people of Pakistan realized the importance of a strong, prosperous and progressive country for us as a nation. If we analyze the international geo-political environment, it is apparent that countries economically, politically and militarily weak find it a struggle to exist as sovereign states on the world stage. It is, therefore, our national duty to make Pakistan strong.

While today is without doubt a day for both prayer and rejoicing, it is also a moment to pause and reflection. We have to examine our strengths and weaknesses. While keeping in view the lofty objectives for which our country was created, it is our duty to take our beloved country forward in attaining its rightful place in the comity of nations.

AlhamdoLillah, far-sighted policies and reforms over the last seven years have given the country correct strategic direction and Pakistan is beginning to realize its tremendous human, geo-strategic and economic potential.

Consistency and transparency of polices have resulted in economic stability; our focus is now on transferring these benefits to the people. The defence of the country has been made impregnable and comprehensive strategy is in place to ensure that it goes from strength to strength. We have also achieved much needed political stability for progress of the country. There is an elected government and representatives of the people are present at all tiers of the legislature, from the national and provincial, down to the grass roots level.

On this occasion, I would like to reiterate that we stand for democracy and have taken for reaching measures to ensure its sustainability; there is total freedom of speech and expression in the country. Steps have been taken for the politico-socio-economic empowerment and rights of women. The antiquated and colonial administrative structure has been replaced by devolving power down to the peoples representatives at the grass roots level and local government is in its second tenure. A host of development projects have been initiated and are at various stages of completion. In this regard, special care has been taken for generation of jobs for the poor segments of society and bringing progress to far flung areas in order to bring them at par with the rest of the country.

Our achievements do not mean that we as a nation have overcome the challenges before us, for on the fringes of society there are obscurantist elements who do not wish to see Pakistan on the path of progress and prosperity. It is our collective duty as citizens of the state not to let such elements succeed in their evil designs.

Let us therefore pledge on this occasion that we will join hands to make Pakistan a dynamic, progressive, tolerant and democratic Islamic welfare state. We have the example of our founding fathers before us to emulate. We cannot afford to let down the vast majority of moderate and peace-loving citizens of our country.

May Allah Almighty grant us the wisdom, courage and resolve to take our beloved country on the path of prosperity and glory. Ameen!