ISLAMABAD, March 24: President Gen Pervez Musharraf has called upon the nation to renew its pledge to work for the progress and prosperity of the country.

In his message on the Yaum-i-Ashur being observed on Monday, he said the event of Karbala inspires us to uphold the glory of Islam.

He said, we should not hesitate to render any sacrifice, even of our lives, for the lofty ideals of Islam.

He said today the Muslims the world over are mourning the great martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS). The tenth of Muharram, the Ashura, is very important for various reasons. However, it gains special significance as Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS)’s martyrdom and the event of Karbala also occurred on this day.

He urged the nation to work for creating an atmosphere of brotherhood, sacrifice and moderation by transcending their mutual differences.

Gen Musharraf said: “The best way to pay tributes to the martyrs of Karbala was to make a commitment on this day to work and devote oneself for the development of the country.”

He said the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) had earned an elevation for Islam and the Muslims. His sacrifice had given us the lesson that irrespective of the limited material resources and numbers, “the real power lies in the truthfulness of the objectives.”

“Muharram ul Haram is a revered month and reminds one of a sublime incident which established a lasting example of truth and principles in the annals of Islamic history,” said Gen Musharraf.

The Jihad fought by Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) along with his companions “is a shining minaret of humanity, patience, perseverance, courage and determination.”

HE SAID: “This is a message that we must not hesitate to render any sacrifice for the sake of Islam and this is part of faith of every Muslim.”—APP