Message from Mr. Mamnoon Hussain President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan On the occasion of 137th Birth Anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam (25th December, 2013)
The commemoration of birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah is an occasion for us all to rejoice and to reaffirm our commitment to those ideals of democracy, egalitarianism, constitutionalism and rule of law that were upheld by our great leader throughout his life.
He united the discordant nation and secured for them a homeland where they could fashion their lives according to their customs and traditions. Our great leader by sheer virtue of his vision, steadfastness and clarity of thought steered the Muslims of the sub-continent through the most tumultuous times and enabled them withstand heavy odds and to gain independence through a democratic struggle. His thought and vision is as relevant to us as it was some six decades ago. Indeed the need for following his path and to adhere to the principles of Unity, Faith & Discipline was never as great as it is today.
The day is also an occasion to pause and ponder and to reflect as to how far we as a nation have been successful in achieving those ideals that motivated our father of the nation to struggle for a separate homeland for the Muslims. It is indeed heartening to see that the nation has achieved significant milestones in its pursuit of democratic ideals and strengthening of state institutions. However, the challenges that we confront today call for unwavering commitment and firmly upholding the principles of Unity, Faith & Discipline while confronting these challenges.
Today, as we pay our tributes to Quaid-e-Azam, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, let us reaffirm our commitment to the vision of our great leader and to re-dedicate ourselves to achieve those ideals that were espoused by our forefathers. Let us pledge that we will work, individually as well as collectively, to make Pakistan a peaceful, progressive and prosperous state.
December 25, 2013
Islamabad
