Islamabad (HRNW)-\u00a0Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that Pakistan is proud of its brave armed forces and will not hesitate to make any sacrifice for the defense of the country and protection of its national interests, including water resources.<\/p>\n
In his Independence Day message, the Prime Minister congratulated Pakistanis at home and abroad on the completion of 79 years of independence, paying tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the leaders of the freedom movement and those who made sacrifices for the creation of Pakistan.<\/p>\n
He said Pakistan\u2019s journey toward progress and prosperity is moving toward a bright future, highlighting achievements in defense, the economy, industry, education, agriculture, technology and other sectors. He said the government had overcome difficult economic challenges and was moving toward a more stable and developed economy.<\/p>\n
Shehbaz Sharif said overseas Pakistanis had increased their remittances by $11.3 billion over the past two years, describing this as a reflection of their continued confidence in government policies.<\/p>\n
The Prime Minister said modern information technology, industrial and agricultural development, public welfare projects, employment opportunities, quality education and skills development remain among the government\u2019s priorities.<\/p>\n
He praised the armed forces for defending the country and said that under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Pakistan\u2019s military had demonstrated unity, determination and courage in defending the homeland.<\/p>\n
He emphasized that Pakistan would not hesitate to make sacrifices for its defense and national interests, including the protection of its water resources. He said Pakistan is now recognized as a strong and responsible voice for peace and stability in the region.<\/p>\n
The Prime Minister also highlighted Pakistan\u2019s strategic relations with regional partners and said the Joint Defense Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkey reflects Pakistan\u2019s growing strategic role.<\/p>\n
He reiterated Pakistan\u2019s support for the Palestinian people and the people of Jammu and Kashmir, saying lasting peace in South Asia requires a diplomatic solution to the Kashmir dispute in accordance with UN resolutions, international law and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.<\/p>\n
Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the armed forces, law-enforcement personnel and martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country and called upon political parties and all segments of society to work together for Pakistan\u2019s development, prosperity, peace, stability and national unity.<\/p>\n
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