I dedicate this year’s 14th August to the freedom of Kashmir: PM Nawaz Sharif
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan dedicated its 69th Independence Day to the freedom of Kashmiris, who have bravely faced state oppression and have kept the movement of freedom alive for decades.
Nawaz Sharif said in his message for the Independence Day, ‘I dedicate this year’s 14th August to the freedom of Kashmir.’ The pain of Quetta’s martyrs is still fresh. Today, we are also remembering those martyrs who sacrificed their lives to protect this independence,’ he added.
President Mamnoon Hussain said, ‘We need to initiate the process of correction individually, then from homes and communities to derive more benefits and ensure the democratic values take root at the state, governmental and administrative levels to pave the way for a meaningful change.’
The Prime Minister said in the month of August, when we remember the Quaid, leaders and workers of Pakistan movement, our hearts are also enlightened with the memory of those martyrs, who have become immortal by sacrificing their lives for the country. He said the nation is united against terrorists.
The President said the armed forces and other law enforcement agencies are playing an effective role in countering terrorism, as a result of which peace is being restored in the country.
Chief Justice Anwar Zaheer Jamali also extended heartiest felicitations to Pakistanis he said, ‘In order to affect change, we need to first move our institutional thinking to be more critical about our performance and be reform-minded to devise and implement suitable solutions.’
The country’s High Commissioner to India, Abdul Basit while addressing on Pakistan’s Independence Day in Dehli said, “Pakistan has always made efforts to improve its relationship with India” and added, “Is saal ki Jashn‑e‑Azadi hum Kashmir ki Azadi ke naam karte hain (We dedicate this year’s Independence Day to Kashmir’s freedom.’ ‘The sacrifice of people in Jammu and Kashmir will not go in vain and the struggle in Kashmir will continue till the people get freedom,’ he added.
The day had begun with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salute in the provincial capitals. Special prayers were offered for the prosperity, integrity and solidarity of the country, and ‘for the success of the long struggle of Kashmiris’.