Alvi urges national unity for progress, development

ISLAMABAD: President Arif Alvi has urged the political leadership and the nation to get united to pave way for progress and development.

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Addressing the flag hoisting ceremony in Islamabad, President invoked the message of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, to highlight importance of unity, faith and discipline in the nation’s journey.

Expressing hope about country’s future Alvi said, “Pakistan can be become a developed country in a short span of time if correct decisions are made.”

He also urged the politicians and other stakeholders to embrace the path of forgiveness, drawing inspiration from the teachings of the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH).

Alvi said national salvation lies in embracing the core values of Islam – meritocracy, justice, rejection of nepotism, especially in the socio-economic sphere.

President said focus on education and health of masses is critical in eradicating poverty. He said all stakeholders should make efforts to improve school enrollment as 27 miliion children remain out of school.

On women empowerment, the President said, “A high growth rate can only be achieved with greater participation of women in economic activities.”

Lauding the sacrifices made to attain independence, he said Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah was amongst the few leaders who not only changed the world’s map but also created a nation.

The President said armed forces and citizens have rendered huge sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, with over 100,000 lives lost in the war on terrorism.

Condemning upsurge in incidents of Islamophobia in the western countries, the President said Islam is a religion of peace and the Muslims love their holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) and the Holy Quran.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s support to the Kashmir cause, President urged international community to pay attention to the plight of people in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Alvi called for resolution of this dispute in accordance with the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolutions , adding soon Kashmir will become part of Pakistan.

Expressing gratitude to the friendly countries including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, China, Iran and Turkiye, President said Pakistan values their support during difficult times.

Earlier, the President unfurled the national flag.

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