EIGHT decades down the lane but the day of 23rd March still stands a significant importance in the history of Pakistan, not because this day changed the course of time but for that unity, faith and discipline, which was delineated by the thousands of Muslims of subcontinent in Minto Park, Lahore. The glory of Minar-e-Pakistan still echoes our ancestor's unyielding cohesion of 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 a successful culmination of the long struggle made by the Muslims of South Asia and sowed the seed of sanguinity to sprout the real quest for an independent homeland with its full vitality, as the first Muslim state, Pakistan on the globe. Enshrined in the unique scruples of Islam, and immersed in its timeless eccentricity, this land of peace and integrity was vowed upon justice, equal rights, sense of devotedness and fair play to all and sundry, regardless of their ethnicity and religious beliefs. Today is a day to reiterate our national resolve and channel our endeavors to sustain a more peaceful, prosperous and strong country with its due merits, religious beliefs, moral values and social consciences. Rich with the abundance of natural resources, matchless beauty and topped with hardworking and diligent people, our motherland only demands us to harness our utmost potential to develop these bounties to strengthen our socio-economical regalia. It is a day to renew our pledge to peace and work in our individual capacities with full honesty, sincerity and dedication to cherish this impeccable blessing of independence with national integrity and pride till perpetuity. "It is my belief that our salvation lies in following the golden rules of conduct set for us by our great lawgiver, the Prophet of Islam. We must work our destiny in our own way and present to the world a system based on true Islamic concept of equality of manhood and social justice. We will thereby be fulfilling our mission as Muslims and giving to humanity the message of peace which alone can save it and secure the welfare, happiness and prosperity of mankind." Accentuating the timeless ideologies of our ancestors, my advice to our youth is to aim their untiring attention towards acquiring education so that they are able to stand guard over our nationalistic goals to face the ever-changing world's dynamism as proud, confident and responsible citizens of the world. Beyond the stretches of boundaries, 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 largest community of expatriates working in the Kingdom generate an exceptional inspiration for Pakistanis for their gratitude and affection towards Saudi Arabia, which was witnessed during the recent visit of the Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman to Pakistan. On the occasion of Pakistan Resolution day, while extending my heartfelt felicitation to all Pakistanis around the world, I express my cordial gratitude to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman for sharing our mutual solidities not only in the moments of happiness but in the times of trials and tribulations 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 people to work towards peace, progress and prosperity of both the countries! (Ameen) Adnan Nasir
