President, PM pay rich tribute to Quaid-i-Azam on 78th death anniversary

He said this vision was amply reflected through the words and deeds of the Quaid and brilliantly expressed in his speech of August 11, just three days before the creation of Pakistan.

President Zardari said the Quaid’s life offered an enduring lesson in perseverance, discipline and confidence in one’s purpose, adding that these qualities provided a great vision to handle all challenges, crises and opportunities.

He said that from security, political, social, cultural and economic challenges to climate emergencies, the life of the Quaid stood as a radiant lighthouse and compass to meet all challenges.

He said the nation must not forget that the Quaid had taught that durable strength came from institutions enjoying public confidence, constitutional continuity and equality before the law, adding that differences and polarisation must be resolved through constitutional institutions, democratic processes, dialogue and the rule of law.

He called upon the people of Pakistan, particularly the youth, to draw strength from the Quaid’s example and to face difficulties with courage and confidence rather than despair and despondency, remaining committed to building a stronger and more prosperous Pakistan.

In his message on the occasion, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif the prime minister said Quaid-i-Azam was an eminent leader who changed the course of history and, against the most challenging odds, paved the way for the establishment of an independent state for the Muslims of the subcontinent.

He said the Quaid had inspired the Muslims of the subcontinent with the determination and courage to unite and struggle for the preservation of their religious, cultural and ideological identity. PM Shehbaz said it was through Quaid-i-Azam’s political acumen, foresight and exemplary leadership that the freedom movement advanced successfully, culminating in the realization of the dream of an independent state.

He said Pakistan came into being to safeguard the ideological freedom, political and religious rights, and economic and social advancement of the Muslims of the subcontinent.

The prime minister noted that Quaid-i-Azam had addressed, with statesmanship and confidence, the formidable challenges confronting the nascent state, including severe administrative and financial constraints, the mass migration of millions of people, and the establishment and functioning of the government’s system.

He said Quaid-i-Azam had made it clear that the State of Pakistan was founded on Islamic principles, which upheld, without distinction of colour or creed, freedom of citizenship and religion, as well as equal fundamental rights and responsibilities for all.

PM Shehbaz said building Pakistan into a developed and welfare state remained the foremost objective of Quaid-i-Azam’s political legacy, adding that the progress, prosperity and welfare of Pakistan could only be achieved through the collective and concerted efforts of the entire nation.

He said the day called upon the nation to renew its pledge to remain committed to the guiding principles of the Quaid, adding that unwavering adherence to his principles of Faith, Unity and Discipline served as a guiding light for the education and upbringing of future generations and as a beacon for a bright national future.

The prime minister said the best way to pay tribute to Quaid-i-Azam’s enduring legacy was to work together for the promotion of national unity, social harmony and economic stability, so that a country truly reflecting the vision, ideals and principles of the great leader could be bequeathed to future generations.

PM Shehbaz said the entire nation was praying for the elevation of the ranks of the Father of the Nation, Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, and that Allah Almighty may bless him with an exalted place in His infinite mercy.