President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari. PHOTO: Express News/File
ISLAMABAD:
President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday called for collective efforts to “strengthen the hands of the establishment”, saying political stability, economic autonomy and institutional strength were key to moving the country forward.
Addressing a public gathering in Moro town of Naushahro Feroze district of Sindh during a visit to the residence of Sindh Interior Minister Ziaul Hasan Lanjar, the President said Pakistan needs to strengthen both the state and its institutions while focusing on long-term economic progress and public welfare.
“We will together strengthen the hands of the establishment, strengthen our own hands and strengthen the country,” President Zardari said while addressing party members and local residents.
He added that “the real challenge is to lead the country.”
The President stressed the need to provide economic empowerment to the people and said the agricultural sector must adopt modern technology in line with contemporary requirements.
He said Pakistan needs to achieve food self-sufficiency and strengthen its economy to become more stable and resilient.
He said efforts were underway to improve agriculture, increase yield per acre, increase income and improve living standards.
Zardari said the government was aware of the economic plight of the people and was working to address it through policies aimed at generating long-term benefits for future generations.
He said the projects related to Gwadar are expected to bring positive economic changes not only to Balochistan but also to the country as a whole.
He said Pakistan had taught India “a lesson it would not forget” during the week-long conflict.
“When the Indian planes were shot down, they came to their senses,” Zardari said, adding that Pakistan shot down “all eight planes that dropped bombs on innocent Pakistanis.”
Talking about his party’s political direction, the President said the Pakistan People’s Party would continue to work within the framework of the 1973 Constitution while taking steps to empower citizens.
