ISLAMABAD: The nation on Thursday observed the 149th birth anniversary of Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, the Founder of Pakistan, with patriotic zeal, paying tribute to his visionary leadership and renewing its pledge to uphold his guiding principles of faith, unity and discipline.

In his message, President Asif Ali Zardari stressed the enduring relevance of Quaid-i-Azam’s leadership and called upon the nation to recommit itself to the democratic, inclusive, and constitutional ideals laid down by the founder of Pakistan.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid rich tribute to Quaid-i-Azam, urging citizens to follow his principles of democracy, constitutionalism, social justice and religious harmony to steer the country towards stability and progress.

The armed forces leadership, including Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, also paid tribute to the Father of the Nation.

The armed forces reaffirm their unwavering commitment to Quaid-i-Azam’s vision of a strong, sovereign, democratic, and prosperous Pakistan, founded on the principles of faith, unity, and discipline, said a statement issued by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The statement emphasised that Quaid-i-Azam’s exemplary leadership, constitutionalism, and steadfast resolve continue to guide the nation and its armed forces in confronting contemporary challenges.

The armed forces reiterate their resolve to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and to contribute wholeheartedly towards national stability, peace, and development, in line with the ideals and aspirations of Quaid-i-Azam.

On the occasion, they also extended heartfelt Christmas greetings to the Christian community of Pakistan, acknowledging their valuable contributions to the nation’s progress and reaffirming their commitment to Quaid-i-Azam’s vision of equal rights, religious freedom, and harmony for all citizens.

The armed forces remain steadfast in their commitment to upholding the legacy of Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah and to serving the nation with honour, courage, and devotion, the statement added.

In the meantime, federal ministers, governors, and chief ministers of the provinces also issued messages highlighting Quaid-i-Azam’s historic struggle, unwavering principles, and farsighted statesmanship.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Science and Technology Minister Khalid Hussain Magsi, and Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain emphasised national unity, tolerance, and adherence to constitutional values.

Published in Dawn, December 26th, 2025