MARCH 23 is a historic day in our national history when the Muslims of subcontinent determined their destiny in line with the vision of Allama Mohammad Iqbal. That very day, the Muslims of subcontinent, under the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, resolved to carve out an independent Muslim state for themselves thus breaking the shackles of slavery and putting an end to tyranny of the Hindu majority. The struggle of the Muslims culminated in creation of an independent Muslim state on Aug. 14, 1947. The creation of Pakistan enabled the Muslims secure their rights, religious freedom and socio-economic opportunities, which were being denied to them by the Hindu majority who also threatened their cultural identity. The Resolution passed on March 23 was aimed at creation of a state where the citizens could enjoy equal opportunities irrespective of caste and creed and where they could play their due role in the progress of the country. The Pakistan of today is a New Pakistan. We are endeavoring to make the country a true Islamic Welfare State. We are committed to establishing a society, which is based on compassion and justice and where every person can contribute towards socio-economic development to the best of his ability. We desire friendly and peaceful relations with all our neighbors, based on the principle of equality. We want countries of the region to join hands to eliminate poverty and help their people achieve socio-economic prosperity. We want to make it clear that our desire for peace should not be treated as a weakness. Pakistan reserves the right to take every step for its defense. By the grace of Allah Almighty our defense is impregnable. We are proud of our gallant armed forces. The courage of our armed forces, the capability of our national security institutions and their countless sacrifices have foiled nefarious designs of the enemies of Pakistan. The entire world witnessed it during the recent Indian aggression and we emerged from the situation even stronger than before. Today, we should not forget our Kashmiri brethren who have long been victim of Indian state terrorism and are forced to lead a life of misery. While expressing our solidarity with our Kashmiri brethren on this occasion we salute their courage and acknowledge their sacrifices. We reaffirm our resolve to continue our political, diplomatic and moral support for the Kashmir cause at every international forum. Today we are at a critical phase of our history where we are waging a struggle to rid our country of corruption and malpractices. We are also striving for economic stability. Though we are faced with a difficult situation, but I reassure you: If the passion is alive, so what we lack! Pakistan-Zindabad Imran Khan
