ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif reflected on Pakistan’s progress over the past 77 years, saying that the nation’s journey has not been commendable .
The PM extended his congratulations to the nation on the occasion of Independence Day. He highlighted the recent achievement of Arshad Nadeem, who won a gold medal, bringing pride to the entire country.
“Arshad Nadeem is a hero of the nation,” said PM Sharif. He was addressing a ceremony in connection with the Independence Day in Islamabad on Wednesday.
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to Allah for the blessing of freedom and acknowledged the immense sacrifices made by the country’s forefathers.
He paid tribute to those who gave their lives for Pakistan, particularly under the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s history, Sharif noted that after gaining independence from India and colonial rule, Pakistan was established as an Islamic welfare state.
However, he admitted that the nation’s progress over the past 77 years has not been commendable. He pointed out that there has been a gradual decline in various sectors, especially the economy, and that the nation has faced significant challenges such as inflation and unemployment.
Sharif also mentioned the internal and external conspiracies, as well as the struggle for power, which have hindered the nation’s progress.
He paid homage to all those who sacrificed their lives for the country and emphasized the need to learn from past mistakes and plan effectively for the future.
The Prime Minister announced that he would soon address the nation to present a five-year economic plan, and hinted at an upcoming reduction in electricity prices, which would bring relief to the public.
Comparing Pakistan’s progress to that of China, Sharif pointed out that although China gained independence two years after Pakistan, it has since surpassed Pakistan in development. He warned that the nation’s enemies are using digital terrorism as a weapon to mislead the youth and urged the younger generation to stay vigilant against the dangers of chaos, division, and deception.
Prime Minister Sharif expressed deep sorrow over the ongoing atrocities in Palestine, particularly in Gaza, describing them as unprecedented in history.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the people of occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine, vowing to stand with them until they achieve freedom.
He emphasized the importance of self-accountability and called for united efforts to plan for the country’s future.
