Fundamental human rights include the right to be free from oppression and the right to self-determination. All great nations are founded on this principle. For example, United States of America ‘We the people’ constitution is based on the people’s desire to control their own destiny.
Pakistan was born on the aspirations of a minority suffering from oppression from two sides: foreign invaders and from an over zealous religious majority. In these dark times, a poet and philosopher, Dr. Allama Iqbal, in 1940, conceived the idea of a homeland free from oppression. Jinnah took up the challenge to make this dream a reality.
Pakistan represents what is good. Pakistan represents a triumph of good over evil. It is not an experiment or hypothesis put to test. Pakistan is a moderate state, rich in cultural heritage and religious diversity. It is based upon the principled stands of equality and justice.
It is incumbent on Pakistanis to focus on prosperity and reforms and not dwell on darkness or gloom. It is only Pakistanis and Pakistanis alone that can help their country join the ranks of advanced nations.
As one American President said, ‘Ask not what your country has done for you but what you can do for your country.’ With this spirit, let us greet each other on this joyous occasion and promise to do our share in building our nation.
Pakistan must succeed if the truth is to prevail over falsehood. Let us remember the words of Pakistan’s founding father, Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, on this day, 55 years ago.
**“It is with feelings of greatest happiness and emotion that I send you my greetings. August 14 is the birthday of the independent and sovereign State of Pakistan. It marks the fulfillment of the destiny of the Muslim nation which has made great sacrifices in the past years to have this homeland.”
“At this supreme moment my thoughts are with those valiant fighters of our cause. Pakistan will remain grateful to them and cherish the memory of those who are no more.”
“The creation of the new State has placed a tremendous responsibility on the citizens of Pakistan. It gives them an opportunity to demonstrate to the world how a nation, containing many elements, can live in peace and amity and work for the betterment of all its citizens, irrespective of caste or creed.”
“Our object should be peace within and peace without. We want to live peacefully and maintain cordial and friendly relations with our immediate neighbors and with the world at large. We have no aggressive designs against any one. We stand by the United Nations Charter and will gladly make our full contribution to the peace and prosperity of the world.”
“Muslims of India have shown to the world that they are a united nation, their cause is just and righteous which cannot be denied. Let us, on this day, humbly thank God for His bounty and pray that we might be able to prove that we are worthy of it.”
“This day marks the end of a poignant phase in our national history and it should be the beginning of a new and a noble era. Let us impress the minorities by word, deed and thought that as long as they fulfill their duties and obligations as loyal citizens of Pakistan, they have nothing to fear.”
“To the freedom-loving tribes on our borders and the States beyond our borders, we send our greetings and assure that Pakistan will respect their status and will extend to them its most friendly co-operation in preserving peace. We have no ambition beyond the desire to live honorably and let others live honorably.”
“Today is Jummat-ul-Wida, last Friday of the holy month of Ramzan, a day of rejoicing for all of us wherever we may be in this vast sub-continent and throughout the world. Let the Muslim congregations in their thousands, in all the mosques, bow in all humility before the Almighty and thank Him for His eternal kindness and generosity, seeking His guidance and assistance in the task of making Pakistan into a great State and themselves into its worthy citizens.”
“Finally, let me tell you, fellow citizens, Pakistan is a land of great potential resources. But to build it up into a country worthy of the Muslim nation, we shall require every ounce of energy that we possess and I am confident that it will come from all whole-heartedly.” **
Jashn-e-Azadi Mubarak ! Happy Birthday Pakistan!