ISLAMABAD: President Mamnoon Hussain has said that democracy is key to continued development and stability of the country.
In a message on the occasion of Pakistan Day, the president said this day is also a vivid reminder that Pakistan was established through a democratic struggle.
Mamnoon Hussain felicitated the nation on the auspicious occasion and said March 23 was “an important landmark in the history of our nation”.
It was on this day in 1940 when the historic Lahore Resolution was passed which united the Muslims of the subcontinent for a greater objective.
He paid homage to the Father of the Nation Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, poet philosopher Dr Allama Iqbal and the other great leaders of the freedom movement who paved way for the creation of Pakistan through their valiant struggle, determination and unparalleled sacrifices.
The president said it is imperative that democratic values are promoted so that tolerance, forbearance and harmony flourishes in the society to address the current challenges afflicting the nation.
He said that terrorism and militancy in the region during the last few decades have adversely affected Pakistan, but the Pakistani nation has faced these challenges with unity and resilience, which enabled to dismantle the last remaining remnants of militancy and usher in a new era of economic prosperity.
He further said that the China Pakistan Economic Corridor and other mega development projects were a testimony to this reality.
The president reiterated to take Pakistan to the heights of glory as envisioned by the nation’s forefathers. He prayed for the strength to serve the country with sincerity and lead Pakistan on the path to even greater progress and prosperity.
Published in Daily Times, March 24th 2018.
