Pakistan’s leaders, including President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, pledged to bring back economic stability to the country on Wednesday as the country marks 77 years of independence. According to state-run Radio Pakistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz pledged to work hard to boost Pakistan’s economy and reduce inflation and electricity bills while speaking at a flag-hoisting ceremony in Islamabad.
He urged a “new journey with new zeal” to guide the country out of its current problems, highlighting the need for reflection to address previous errors. The prime minister stressed that “hard work, honesty, and passion” were needed to set the country on the path to growth and prosperity.
In a late-night message on Tuesday, the premier declared, “Our unwavering commitment to Pakistan’s progress and prosperity on Independence Day 2024: reforms and continuous struggle, we will beautify tomorrow’s Pakistan.” The day was the “culmination of the historic political struggle of Muslims of India for their right to self-determination,” according to President Zardari’s speech.
According to Radio Pakistan, he stated, “We need to put aside our differences and work committedly for unity, integrity, and economic stability.” The president demanded that democratic institutions be strengthened and the rule of law upheld. He also restated Pakistan’s backing for the Palestinian people as well as the people of India-occupied Kashmir (IoK). Ishaq Dar, the foreign minister and deputy prime minister, also emphasized this year’s theme of “Azm-i-Istehkam” (resolve for stability).
Country celebrates Independence Day
At a ceremony earlier today at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad, where Olympic gold medallist Arshad Nadeem, Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani, and other dignitaries were present, PM Shehbaz raised the national flag. Mosques also held extra prayers in support of national unity, prosperity, and peace. A contingent of Pakistan Naval Academy cadets took charge during a Change of Guards ceremony that was performed in the morning at Mazar-i-Quaid in Karachi.
On this Independence Day, we are honoring our country’s perseverance, diversity, and solidarity by celebrating its 77 years of independence, the government wrote in a post on its official X account. The hashtag “Azm-i-Istehkam” (resolve for stability) and the statement “Let us continue to work together towards a prosperous and peaceful future for all” were also included.
In a distinct statement commemorating the event, Prime Minister Shehbaz honored the “sacrifices of our forefathers and countless unsung heroes of the Pakistan Movement,” according to state-run Radio Pakistan. He emphasized that the leaders “struggled fearlessly to give millions of South Asians an independent nation where they could live under their values and beliefs.”
As he paid tribute to the people of the Islamic Republic of Kashmir, the prime minister restated Pakistan’s commitment to supporting Kashmiris politically, morally, and diplomatically until they are granted their universal right to self-determination. Additionally, Pakistan would continue to support “oppressed Palestinians for their legitimate rights,” according to PM Shehbaz.
