On the momentous occasion of the Independence Day of Pakistan, I extend warm greetings to all countrymen and women. This day signifies an epoch-making moment in our history that reminds us  of the determined struggle and supreme sacrifices of our forefathers for a separate homeland. In their quest for freedom, the Muslims of the sub-continent stood united under the visionary and dynamic leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and bravely faced the daunting odds that came their way.

  With extraordinary fixity of purpose, they eventually realised their long-wished-for dream of achieving an independent state. While celebrating our nation’s birth with traditional patriotic fervour, we must strive to be worthy of our ancestors’ tremendous sacrifices and prove ourselves true inheritors of the invaluable reward bestowed upon us by Allah Almighty. Undoubtedly, the challenges we are facing today demand unity in our ranks. In these testing times, nothing but a sense of belonging and ownership with the country can inspire feelings of patriotism and self-sacrifice in the service of the nation.

  We must show compassion for others by being forthcoming and lending a helping hand to our brothers and sisters in distress. Indeed, Pakistan is our identity and through the spirit of nationalism we can promote national unity and supreme loyalty to motherland. This auspicious occasion provides us an opportunity to reflect on our journey since inception, chart our destiny and work with renewed vigour and enthusiasm for peace, progress and prosperity of the country. Certainly, added focus on quality education, together with indigenization will give greater impetus to our progress. I assure you that Pakistan Air Force is ever ready to thwart the nefarious designs of the enemy. PAF’s pivotal role in Operation Zarb-e-Azb is a manifestation to its operational preparedness. No doubt, PAF always provides a level playing field for all and strongly believes in merit and professionalism – the guiding principles  that inform all our decisions. May Allah Almighty guide our efforts and give us the strength to safeguard the aerial frontiers of the nation – a commitment to which Pakistan Air Force has always measured up with rare courage all along. I once again wish you all a happy Independence Day.