ISLAMABAD - President Mamnoon Hussain has stressed the nation to reiterate its pledge to continue upholding democracy, constitutionalism and rule of law.
In his message on the 68th Independence Day, the President said: “Let us reiterate our commitment to follow the principles of Unity, Faith and Discipline as our strength and guide towards reaching our ultimate destination. A state created through democratic means to witness supremacy of democratic process, rule of law and constitutionalism is being governed today by a democratically elected government.”
The President called upon every Pakistani to stand firm and united and work diligently for a progressive, prosperous and peaceful Pakistan.  "Let us prove ourselves worthy inheritors of the invaluable reward that we have been bestowed by Almighty through untiring struggle of our forefathers," he added. He said the Independence Day is the most auspicious occasion in our national calendar as it reminds us of the great sacrifices of our forefathers that were made for securing our socio-economic, religious and cultural freedom. It also provides us an opportunity to reiterate our pledge to those ideals that led to the creation of an independent and sovereign state, he added. He opined that the day is an occasion to pay tribute to the valiant struggle of all the proponents and workers of Pakistan Movement and also a moment to recognize, honour and appreciate all those sons of the soil who have been safeguarding our ideological and geographical boundaries.
The Day is also an occasion to reflect on our past, ponder over the present and plan for the future, he added.  "It is indeed a matter of great satisfaction to note that despite many political upheavals of the past, natural calamities and other challenges, we have achieved significant milestones in our journey towards a democratic, prosperous and progressive nation," he added.
The President further called upon the nation to also pay tribute to the brave armed forces and the personnel of law-enforcing agencies who have been offering great sacrifices for our security and territorial integrity of the country.
"Let us appreciate and acknowledge countless sacrifices of our brethren who stand should to shoulder with our armed forces in our national struggle against militancy, extremism and bigotry. Let us stand united against all those elements who are bent upon tarnishing our image and identity as a progressive, peaceful and tolerant society. Let us work together as a unified nation to gradually meet the challenges that we face today.
The magnitude and severity of the challenge may be daunting but so is  our resolve and commitment to confront them head on," he added.
The President also prayed for prosperity of the beloved homeland and bounties of peace and freedom for the people.