Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed on Friday the need for embracing the national unity to combat the menace of terrorism.
Speaking at the "Rab-e-Zul-Jalaal Ka Ehsaan – Pakistan Day" ceremony, he expressed that the country’s progress hinged on a united front, especially against the forces of terror.
PM Shehbaz said: "Every individual in this nation must contribute to the country's development," highlighting the sacrifices made by the armed forces in the fight against terrorism. He also emphasised that the collective efforts of the people were essential in ending the menace, which had long threatened the stability and prosperity of Pakistan.
"The establishment of Pakistan was no less than a miracle. Great sacrifices were made, and blood was shed before the country came into existence," said PM Shehbaz.
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He further urged the nation to recognise the importance of unity and stated, "The country’s future will be shaped by our ability to come together as one."
PM Shehbaz reminded the gathering of Pakistan’s significant accomplishments, including becoming a nuclear power in 1998, asserting that the country had been blessed with immense natural resources.
He mentioned that with these resources, Pakistan could eliminate its debts and stand tall on the world stage.
Addressing the challenges posed by terrorism, he stated, "Terrorists receive both political and economic support, and this is done with the sole purpose of preventing Pakistan from benefiting from its natural resources." He went on to say that these resources, if utilised properly, could transform Pakistan into a prosperous nation.
He criticised the elements that sought to destabilise the country, declaring, "Our enemies cannot tolerate Pakistan’s development and prosperity."
PM Shehbaz pointed out that the nation had faced hardships, but the sacrifices of its young soldiers and citizens should not be in vain.
"We must decide how long the bloodshed will continue," he remarked, urging the nation to rise above personal differences for the collective good.
Sharif also called on religious leaders to play a role in eradicating terrorism, saying, "Our founder, Quaid-e-Azam, envisioned a Pakistan where Muslims could freely practise their religion, and minorities could enjoy equal rights." He reaffirmed that Pakistan’s creation was not merely a quest for freedom from foreign rule, but for a society based on justice and equity.
"Pakistan was not created to rely on loans or foreign aid," he emphasised, underscoring the importance of standing on one’s own feet and becoming an economic powerhouse. He added, "No law or regulation in Pakistan can go against the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah."
PM Shehbaz stressed the importance of the youth in Pakistan's future, drawing on the words of Allama Iqbal, who had likened young people to eagles.
He urged them to dedicate themselves to the nation’s development and future prosperity. "We will reduce government expenses, and our focus will be on training and empowering the youth, not in billions, but in trillions," he declared, outlining his vision for youth development through initiatives like the Prime Minister's Youth Programme and Digital Youth Hubs.
PM Shehbaz pointed out that Pakistan’s prosperity was linked to peace and unity. "Pakistan's success lies in our unity and resolve," he said, encouraging the nation to stand together in the pursuit of a brighter future.
