“On the auspicious occasion of 23 March 2016, Pakistan National Day, I extend my heartiest felicitations to all the British Pakistanis as well as the friends of Pakistan in the UK and elsewhere.
“Seventy-six years ago, the Muslims of Sub-Continent made a resolve to seek their own independent state. Founder of Pakistan Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah declared that Muslims of South Asia were an independent nation by any definition. He led the struggle for a separate state based on principles of social justice, self-determination and equality. The firm commitment of the Quaid wholeheartedly backed by the nation ultimately succeeded in carving out a separate homeland on 14 August 1947.
“Since then, we, as a nation, have crossed many milestones after overcoming several insurmountable odds. Today, Pakistan is undergoing a silent revolution. Our country is moving forward on all fronts: economically, socially and culturally. Due to the economic reforms agenda of the government of Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, our economy has turned around. China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), is destined to be a game changer not only for Pakistan but for the economies of the entire region.
“I wish to share with you that our achievements in fight against terrorism and extremism are unprecedented. All this was accomplished due to the vision of the government, resilience of our people and valour of our armed forces. The menace of terrorism and extremism has been successfully arrested. This is being widely acknowledged by the international community.
“Today, the narrative about Pakistan has changed and we stand as a confident and forward looking nation. The hustle and  bustle of our cities and streets has returned. Robust cultural activities stand revived–our cultural and literary scenes are attracting throngs of visitors from across the world.
“Bilateral relations between Pakistan and the UK have remained on an upward trajectory at all levels. High level bilateral visits during the last year are testimony to growing and mutually beneficial relations between our two countries. The role of our more than a million strong British-Pakistani diaspora in strengthening the bilateral relations as a bridge between two countries is highly commendable.
“On this day, let us make a solemn resolve to adhere to the guiding principles of the Quaid-i-Azam: Faith, Unity, and Discipline. This is, indeed, the way forward.
“I wish you all a happy and prosperous Pakistan National Day!
“Pakistan Paindabad!”

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