On Pakistan Day, leaders urge unity, resilience and shared resolve

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s leadership on Monday urged unity, resilience and collective resolve as the country marked Pakistan Day, with officials at home and abroad paying tribute to the sacrifices that led to the nation’s creation in 1947.

In separate messages, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the enduring relevance of national cohesion, while reaffirming commitments to economic recovery, security, and democratic strength.

Zardari said the occasion was a reminder that “unity and solidarity are the most important elements in transforming national resolve into reality,” paying tribute to “our elders whose struggle and sacrifices led to the creation of Pakistan.”

He noted that Pakistan had overcome major challenges through “mutual cooperation, hard work, and capability,” but cautioned that both internal and external challenges persist. “We will not allow any group to use Afghan soil for actions against Pakistan,” he said, adding that those who sponsor terrorism would be eliminated.

Referring to regional dynamics and Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), the president described India’s treatment of minorities, particularly Muslims, as “proof” of the need for a separate homeland. He called on the international community to support Kashmiris’ right to “self-determination.”

Zardari also stressed the importance of democratic continuity and equality. “Unity, faith and discipline are the guiding principles through which we can make Pakistan even stronger and more prosperous,” he said.

PM Sharif described March 23 as a defining moment in South Asian history. “It was on this day in 1940 that the Muslims of the Subcontinent passed the historic Lahore Resolution and demanded a separate homeland,” he said, adding that the vision was realized through the sacrifices of the founding fathers.

Acknowledging current pressures, Sharif said Pakistan faces “serious challenges… including inflation, unemployment, circular debt, fiscal and trade deficit, and above all the growing scourge of terrorism.”

“We stand committed to put Pakistan on the path to economic recovery and prosperity with a cogent policy reform framework,” he said, urging collective action. “Let us renew our firm resolve to follow the footsteps of our founding fathers to make Pakistan a pivot of peace, progress and stability.”

He added: “Let us work for a Pakistan that is not driven apart by differences but is united around shared values.”

China reaffirms partnership

Chinese President Xi Jinping extended congratulations to Zardari, praising Pakistan’s efforts to safeguard “national sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and national dignity,” and its contributions to “regional peace, stability, and development.”

“As a close friend, China is sincerely pleased with Pakistan's development achievements,” Xi said, expressing readiness to “build an even closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future.”

Chinese Premier Li Qiang also conveyed greetings to Prime Minister Sharif.

Ceremonies across global missions

Pakistan’s diplomatic missions worldwide marked the day with flag-hoisting ceremonies and community events.

At the Consulate General in Dubai, Consul General Hussain Muhammad recalled the Lahore Resolution as the foundation of an independent homeland, calling Pakistan’s creation through a peaceful democratic struggle “an unparalleled milestone in the human history.”

He praised the Pakistani diaspora in the United Arab Emirates as a “vital bridge” and commended their contribution, noting record remittances in February 2026.

In London, High Commissioner Dr. Mohammad Faisal said Pakistan “had always professed peace and stability in the region,” but warned that it “will not tolerate any aggression from neighbouring countries.”

He described the nation as resilient, showing “courage & perseverance” despite challenges, and reaffirmed support for Kashmiris’ right to self-determination.

In Dhaka, High Commissioner Imran Haider highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to global peace while linking sustainable regional stability to a just resolution of the Kashmir dispute.

Solidarity was also expressed with the people of Palestine, while national resolve against terrorism was emphasized.

At the embassy in Beijing, Ambassador Khalil Hashmi underscored the enduring relevance of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s principles of “Unity, Faith, and Discipline,” and highlighted efforts to expand cooperation with China in investment, education, technology, and people-to-people exchanges, particularly as both countries mark 75 years of diplomatic relations.

In New Delhi, Chargé d’Affaires Saad Ahmad Warraich described the Lahore Resolution as a “touchstone” for Muslims of the subcontinent.

He said Pakistan’s “unwavering resolve to preserve and protect its sovereignty and independence” remains evident, adding that lasting peace with India depends on “equality, mutual respect and peaceful settlement of all disputes,” including Jammu and Kashmir, in line with UN resolutions.

Across these ceremonies, officials consistently paid tribute to the founding leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and reaffirmed a shared commitment to unity, resilience and national progress.