I extend my heartfelt felicitations to Pakistanis at home and abroad on ‘Pakistan Day.’ The 23rd March marks a momentous day in our history. It was on this day in 1940 that the Muslims of Sub-Continent passed the historic ‘Pakistan Resolution’ and demanded a separate homeland where they could freely live their own way of life according to the principles of Islam. Through a consistent and dedicated political struggle of our founding fathers, the dream of a separate homeland for Muslims of South Asia became a reality and Pakistan appeared on the map of the world on 14^th August 1947.

Our forefathers made untiring efforts and rendered exemplary sacrifices for Pakistan. Millions of Muslims left their homes in India and decided to migrate to Pakistan. The new State faced unprecedented challenges including creating a social and economic foundation, settlement of refugees, creation of State institutions, and meagre resources.  However, under the inspiring leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and with the resilience and dedication of the nation, those daunting challenges faced by the nascent State were addressed and a foundation for an independent democratic state was laid down.

In our journey on the path of democracy, the people of Pakistan elected their representatives in the general elections held on 8 February and consequently Governments have been formed at the Federal and Provincial levels. We are completely cognizant of the serious challenges confronting Pakistan currently including inflation, unemployment, circular debt, fiscal and trade deficit, and above all the growing scourge of terrorism. However, as a nation we have proved to be resilient in the face of extraordinary circumstances and stood the test of time. I can assure you that we stand committed to put Pakistan on the path to economic recovery and prosperity with a cogent policy reform framework.  I hope that these measures will bring economic stability and the current wave of high inflation will recede, bringing respite for our citizens.

On this day, let us renew our firm resolve to follow the footsteps of our founding fathers to make Pakistan a trivet of peace, progress and stability. Let us not forget that our actions today will define the legacy of our generation and shape the course of history. Let us work for a Pakistan that is not driven apart by differences but is united around shared values.

Pakistan Paindabad!

On this auspicious occasion of Pakistan Day, I extend heartfelt greetings and best wishes to each one of you. Today, as we commemorate the historic passage of the Pakistan Resolution on 23^rd March 1940, a day that laid the foundation for the creation of our beloved nation and an independent homeland, let us reflect on our journey, celebrate our achievements, and reaffirm our commitment to a prosperous and united Pakistan.

As we revisit the pages of history, we are reminded of the vision and determination of our forefathers. The Pakistan Resolution of 1940 marked a crucial turning point, setting the course for the establishment of Pakistan on 14^th August 1947. Today, we honour the commitment and sacrifices made by the Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah and his companions, who worked tirelessly towards transforming Allama Dr Muhammad Iqbal's dream into reality.

The journey since our independence has been marked by significant achievements across various domains. Our armed forces, civil administration, police, and law enforcement agencies have, with unwavering commitment, ensured the safety, security, and sovereignty of our nation. Their triumphant role in the two-decade-long war against terrorism, rapid response to the call of duty in times of natural disasters, and contribution to peacekeeping missions worldwide stand out as our unflinching commitment to global peace and peaceful coexistence.

Let us also recognize the unparalleled sacrifices of our Kashmiri brethren, both during the Pakistan Movement and in the ongoing struggle for the freedom of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK). The people of IIOJK are enduring the worst form of repression and state-sponsored terrorism at the hands of Indian occupation forces, aggravated by the Hindutva agenda, exemplified by the unilateral revocation of Article 370 and 35A. The key to durable peace in South Asia is the resolution of the dispute in accordance with the United Nations Security Council Resolutions. Pakistan, on its part, stands committed to extending all kinds of moral and diplomatic support until the oppressed people get their right to self-determination.

Similarly, Pakistan is deeply concerned over the indiscriminate killing of innocent Palestinians and persistent attacks on educational institutions and hospitals by the Israeli Defence Forces. Pakistan remains steadfast in its principled support for the establishment of an independent, viable, and contiguous state of Palestine, based on the pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

In the spirit of Pakistan Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to democracy, justice, and equality. I urge each one of you to participate in the nation-building process actively; embracing the values of hard work, integrity, and compassion. Together, united, we shall overcome obstacles and chart a course towards a better and brighter future for our beloved Pakistan.

Pakistan Zindabad!

May Allah bless the Islamic Republic of Pakistan!