Pakistan Independence Day:
Reach out to victims, heal their wounds - Pakistani President
The Pakistan High Commission and the Pakistani community in Sri Lanka
celebrated the 64th Independence Day of Pakistan with traditional
fervour and resolve to make Pakistan a strong, dynamic progressive
tolerant and democratic Islamic welfare state.
Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari in his message said that today is
a watershed mark in the history of the country as on this day 63 years
ago, Pakistan was founded as a separate homeland wherein we could live
in freedom and shape our lives according to our values. It is therefore
an occasion of joy and celebration for all of us.
Acting Pakistani High Commissioner Mariam Saeed officiating
at the function |
The enthusiasm of the Independence Day this year, however has been
dampened because of the unprecedented floods that have devastated the
lives of thousands of people and left scars on the lives of several
hundred thousands more in all parts of the country. The best way to
celebrate the Independence Day this year therefore is to reach out to
the victims of this natural disaster, heal their wounds and help them to
help themselves.
In his message, the Prime Minister of Pakistan Syed Yousuf Raza
Gilani said, “we are celebrating our 64th Independence Day at a time
when the country is up against many challenges of grave nature, the
chief being rehabilitation of flood victims, fight against terrorism,
struggling economy and ensuring political stability.
The recent floods have wreaked havoc across the country causing human
casualties, damaging roads and telecommunication infrastructure, and
crops at massive scale. According to the United Nations’ assessment, the
total damage done by the floods is more than what the world suffered in
Tsunami in 2004 and what Pakistan had to face in the aftermath of
earthquake in October 2005.
Similarly, terrorists and extremists are out to impose their
exclusive and conservative agenda on the peaceful Pakistani nation. Our
national economy has been hit hard both by the ongoing war against
terrorism and natural disasters. In her message Acting High Commissioner
of Pakistan Mariam Saeed thanked President Mahinda Rajapaksa, and Sri
Lankan people for their support, kindness, thoughtfulness and prayers
for Pakistan in this moment of great distress.
She said that Pakistan will never forget the physical and moral
support rendered to us by its Sri Lankan friends during these difficult
times.
This gesture of Sri Lankan Government and the Sri Lankan people will
further strengthen our traditionally close and cordial relations. And to
reciprocate it, on the occasion of our Independence Day, I wish to
extend to the people of Sri Lanka, its leadership and the Government of
President Rajapaksa, continued growth, success and peace in the years
ahead.
A large number of Pakistani community, Embassy officials,
dignitaries, media men and others attended the ceremony. |