Dr. Alvi urges political leadership, nation to unite for Pakistan’s progress

Islamabad: President Dr. Arif Alvi urged the political leadership and the people to get united to take the country in the direction of progress and development.

Addressing the nation after unfurling the national flag at the main flag hoisting ceremony held at Convention Center in Islamabad today, he said: “This is demand of time that Quaid-e- Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah's message of Unity, Faith and Discipline is truly followed”.

President stressed that it is unity that makes a nation. The time has not yet passed and the path is open for Pakistan. He was confident that Pakistan can become a developed country in a matter of few years.

Arif Alvi urged the politicians and other stakeholders to embrace the path of forgiveness, drawing inspiration from the life and teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).

The importance of embracing the core values of Islam was stressed, stating that veering away from these principles would exacerbate the situation.

He highlighted the necessity of breaking free from nepotism, promoting meritocracy, and ensuring comprehensive justice, particularly in the socio-economic sphere, in order to progress.

“Promoting education is of paramount importance to alleviate poverty,” he added regretting that our 27 million children are out of school.

Doctor said the affluent class should come forward and make arrangements for their education.  Similarly, he said ensuring better health is also pivotal to address the issue of poverty.

The President laid great emphasis on greater participation of women in economic activities saying that “They constitute almost half of population and their involvement is important to achieve high growth rate”.

Alvi paid glowing tributes to the sacrifices that were made by the ancestors for the creation of Pakistan.

He continued to say: “Quaid-e-Azam was amongst the few leaders who changed the world's map and also created a nation”.

It is important to recall the sacrifices of our forefathers in order to given an impetus to the struggle aimed at strengthening Pakistan.

The President said our armed forces and people continue to render sacrifices even today. About 100,000 people lost their lives in the war on terrorism, reaffirming the commitment to continue the struggle against the menace.

Strongly lamenting the Islamophobic incidents in the western countries, the President said Islam is a religion of peace and the Muslims love their holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) and the Holy Quran.

He further added at a time when the humanity is in danger because of threats such as global warming, we should promote harmony instead of hatred.

Turning to the situation in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), the President said: “Pakistan will always stand by their Kashmiri brothers and sisters”.

He urged the international community to pay attention to the resolution of this dispute in accordance with the UN Security Council Resolutions. Kashmir will become part of Pakistan.

The President also expressed his gratitude to the friendly countries including Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), China, Iran and Turkiye for supporting Pakistan in difficult times.  

Earlier the President unfurled the national flag.

The ceremony is being attended amongst others by Chairman Senate Sadiq Sanjrani and Speaker National Assembly Raja Pervaiz Ashraf.