Eight decades down the line, March 23, 1940, remains a date of great significance and importance to the people of Pakistan, not only because it changed the course of their history but for that unity, faith and discipline which was delineated by the thousands of Muslims of the subcontinent in the large steppe of Minto Park, Lahore.
The glory of Minar-e-Pakistan still echoes to the sound of our ancestors’ unyielding unity behind one conviction, one dream and one resolution of sovereignty for posterity to cherish.
Under the inspirational leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the unwavering resolve of this inordinate congregation proved to be the successful culmination of a long struggle by the Muslims of South Asia, and sowed the seeds of sanguinity from which grew the real quest for an independent homeland: The first Muslim state, Pakistan.
Today is a day to reiterate our national resolve and channel our endeavors to sustain a more peaceful, prosperous and strong country in keeping with its merits, religious beliefs, moral values and social conscience.
This is a day to renew our pledge to pursue peace and work in our individual capacities with full honesty, sincerity and dedication to forever cherish this impeccable blessing of independence with national integrity and pride.
Accentuating the timeless ideologies of our ancestors, my advice to our youth is to focus their untiring attention toward acquiring an education so that they are able to stand guard over our nationalistic goals and face the ever-changing world’s dynamism as proud, confident and responsible citizens of the world.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia cherish a unique bond of brotherhood that triggers the cordial sentiments of the people of both countries for each other.
The two Holy Mosques and the large community of expatriates working in the Kingdom generate an exceptional inspiration for the gratitude and affection of Pakistanis toward Saudi Arabia, as witnessed during the recent visit of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to Pakistan.
On the occasion of Pakistan Resolution Day, while extending my heartfelt felicitations to all Pakistanis around the world, I express my cordial gratitude to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for sharing mutual solidarity not only in moments of happiness but in the times of trial and tribulation as well.
May Allah Almighty guide us in our efforts to become the true heirs of our homelands and bestow us with the strength, vision and unprecedented support of their peoples to work toward the peace, progress and prosperity of both countries. Ameen.
• Adnan Nasir is principal at Pakistan International School-Jeddah; English Section.
