President Asif Ali Zardari addresses local leaders and former party ticket holders at Rahim Yar Khan. Photo: APP
RAHIM YAR KHAN:
President Asif Ali Zardari on Saturday reiterated his determination to steer the country towards economic recovery, strengthen national unity and uphold the ideological heritage of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP).
Addressing local leaders and former party ticket holders from South Punjab, he said being there made him feel like he was in his native province of Sindh, noting that the culture of the two regions reflected unity and shared traditions and heritage.
He expressed pride in having spent about 14 years in prison, saying he endured those years with courage, thanks to the unwavering support and indomitable will of party activists.
Apparently referring to a political rival now in opposition, he noted that true leadership was tested in difficult times, contrasting his long detention with others who, despite spending a shorter period behind bars and having been given every facility, could not withstand the pressure.
The president acknowledged that the country was facing economic difficulties and inflation, but attributed the situation to the mismanagement of the previous four-year government. He said the current Prime Minister was making sincere efforts to stabilize the economy and ensure smooth governance despite numerous challenges.
Underscoring national security concerns, Zardari highlighted tensions along international borders and said hostile forces remained active.
He criticized Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying their recent defeat last year had brought sense across the border. He commended the Pakistan Armed Forces for their continued sacrifices in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, stressing that they have always defended the country with courage and faith.
He stressed the importance of providing modern facilities to farmers to accelerate agricultural growth, ensure food security and national progress.
President Zardari also appreciated the services of senior political figures from South Punjab, including Makhdoom Ahmed Mahmood and the Gillani family, saying their contributions have strengthened the political landscape of the region.
Reaffirming the ideological foundations of the party, he said the vision initiated by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was carried forward by Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and continued under the leadership of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
He expressed optimism that economic conditions would soon improve and promised that the party would continue to work to ensure a better future for the country’s youth.
