➢ I wish to congratulate you all on completion of 76 years of Independence, and for celebrating 14th August with the glorious tradition of an immaculate and inspiring Parade at Pakistan Military Academy. Alongside the national fervor of rejoicing this day, every year, 14th August brings back to us an opportunity for revival of pledge, for total commitment and unflinching resolve, for a bright future of our motherland. You all stand tonight to honour ‘Independence’, which came as a result of the vision of our great leaders, and the relentless efforts and sacrifices of our forefathers. This day reminds us of the spirit behind the creation of this country, “Pakistan ka matlab kia – La illaha Illalah” which was rooted in the ideology of the Two Nation Theory, and the manifest destiny of the Muslims of Sub Continent
➢ For 76 years, we have maintained this tradition of celebrating freedom, equality and quest for happiness, which we must continue to cherish, every day of our lives. We are here to reinforce the patriotic spirit of serving our homeland, a land of countless opportunities and immeasurable bounties. Our great country and the nation will Inshallah continue to rise, in line with the aspirations of our forefathers, the people of Pakistan and for a bright future of the coming generations
➢ We are passing through interesting times, a watershed era, fraught with challenges, geo-political wrangling, increasing power contestation, hegemonism and jingoism. We continue to withstand the evil designs of the inimical forces; forces of instability and chaos, which are eager in their failed attempts to undo Pakistan. Let me caution them all, in the words of our great Quaid, “There is no power on earth, which can undo Pakistan” – Inshallah. We have fought for long with our external and internal enemies, and we will fight for as long as required in future as well.
➢ As I said at a number of occasions, we have the will, capacity and capability to withstand all challenges, whether external or internal. I stand here tonight, not to define these challenges being confronted, but to give a message of Hope to our great nation. I am here to reassure the people, that we the defenders of Pakistan, will never hesitate from any sacrifice in preserving our sovereignty and territorial integrity. Wherever required, we shall contribute towards the Comprehensive National Security of Pakistan, and the national development efforts. Pakistan Army as a National Army, takes pride in its unwavering commitment to the people of Pakistan. Attempts to drive a wedge between Army and Nation are reprehensible, and will never succeed – Afwaj-e-Pakistan aur Awam aik hain!
➢ This great country is gifted with countless blessings stretching from the Himalayas to the Coastal Belt, from Rocky Mountains on the West to the green pastures, alluvial plains and the expansive deserts in the East, which are all rich with natural endowments and great opportunities. We have a vibrant nation of over 240 million, with bulk comprising of aspiring and hardworking youth. All we need is to follow the principles of Faith, Unity and Discipline. Faith in Allah and our abilities to rise against all odds, while never giving into distractions; Unity in our efforts; and the desired Discipline of channelizing our energies towards the right direction of peace, prosperity and development
➢ I urge you to reject despondency, propaganda of naysayers and fear mongers, who are wagging a failed attempt to foment despair and hopelessness. This great country and the nation has withstood many such challenges during its creation and thereafter. No country or nation on earth has ever met success without such challenges coming their way. Allah also reminds us in Surah Al-Imran (Ayat 139)
ولا تھنو ولا تحزنو وانتم الا علون ان کنتم مو منین۔
Fear Not, Worry Not, and you will be superior in victory if you are indeed believers
