Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal chairs a consultative meeting in Islamabad on the production of two historical historical web series on Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Muhammad Iqbal. SCREENSHOT
ISLAMABAD:
Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal, on the occasion of Pakistan Day, highlights the need for national unity and economic revival, urging the country to overcome pessimism and focus on self-reliance, while emphasizing the role of leaders in making Pakistan a nuclear power and strengthening its defense.
Addressing a function organized on the occasion of March 23, he said that the vision of Pakistan was conceived on March 23, 1940, under the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and materialized in just seven years of struggle.
He noted that despite serious illness, the Quaid continued to lead the Pakistan movement, hiding his condition and intensifying his efforts until the nation achieved independence.
“We cannot fully repay the sacrifices of Quaid-e-Azam, but it is our responsibility to follow his footsteps and put the country on the path of progress,” he said.
The minister said that Pakistan today has strong defense capabilities, which have gained global recognition in recent years, adding that vigilance and strength are essential in a changing regional environment.
He credited Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, General Zia-ul-Haq, Ghulam Ishaq Khan and Nawaz Sharif for their key roles in transforming Pakistan into a nuclear power, thereby making its defense invincible.
On economic challenges, Ahsan Iqbal said the country needs to reduce dependence on foreign loans, increase exports to earn dollars and make collective efforts to win the “battle of development”.
He urged the nation to overcome inferiority and negative thinking, emphasizing that Pakistan is a great blessing from Allah and must be strengthened through hard work and determination in keeping with the legacy of its forefathers.
