ISLAMABAD, Aug 13 : President Gen Pervez Musharraf and Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali, on the occasion of the 56th anniversary of country’s independence, felicitating Pakistanis shared aspirations of the countrymen for a bright future.

The president in his message said: “It is imperative that all of us appreciate that taking our country on the path of progress and safeguarding our independence is equally important to achieve the mission of our freedom movement.

“Therefore, it is our foremost duty to demonstrate firm determination in upholding the unity of the nation and strengthening integrity and solidarity of the country.

“The creation of Pakistan epitomized the successful culmination of a long and arduous struggle against heavy odds by the Muslims of South Asia under the inspiring and dynamic leadership of our founding father, Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah.

“On this occasion we must remember the sacrifices being rendered by our brethren, the people of held Kashmir, who to-date are engaged in their rightful struggle to self-determination against oppression by occupation forces.

“Our country is now beginning to realize its true potential in the economic field as a result of far-sighted policies and reforms. The day is not far off when people will fully benefit from the fruits of economic stability and development and be able to lead a happy life.

“Let us resolve on this occasion that we will work together for the prosperity, sovereignty and progress of the nation.”

Mr Jamali in his message said: “ As it is, the day should take our minds to the untold sacrifices rendered by the Muslims of the Subcontinent for attainment of a homeland of their own. We must never forget those millions who laid down their lives for that purpose.

“It is owing to their contribution that today Pakistan is a nuclear power, and is poised to play a historic role in ensuring peace and prosperity in this region. We are making up for the mistakes of the past and realizing that only if we are united and economically strong we can count a democratic Islamic state respected in the world.

“In times of crisis, proud and self-respecting nations temper their national celebrations with reality. As you must know, the unprecedented floods have played havoc with many parts of the country and that is why I decided that there should be no festivity on August 14.

“But we must give thanks to the Almighty Allah for His blessing which enabled Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah to take his people to freedom and sovereignty against the heavy odds. That can be done, and must be done, with sobriety and seriousness so that the people are made to realize their good fortune in living in an atmosphere free of alien authority.

“On this auspicious day, I hope you will keep in mind that I have established Prime Minister‘s Disaster Relief Fund and issued an appeal for donations to help the distressed in various parts of the country.

“May Almighty Allah bless our efforts to build up Pakistan as a self-confident and self-reliant nation.”