LAHORE, Aug 14: Punjab Chief Minister Pervaiz Elahi has said that no internal and external conspiracy can weaken Pakistan and future of homeland is bright.

Speaking at a flag-hoisting ceremony at Hazoori Bagh, Shahi Qila, to mark the 60th Independence Day on Tuesday, the chief minister said the government would leave no stone unturned to uplift the country.

Elahi said it was impassioned leadership of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, which made inception of this country possible.

He said the way Muslims of the subcontinent took part in the Pakistan Movement from a single platform, the same way nation had to continue the voyage of development with unity.

He said the dream of independent homeland for Muslims of the subcontinent came true despite there were elements mongering disappointment and chaos. The chief minister said recognition of such elements was due to the existence of this country and it was obligatory for the media, intellectuals and other segments of society to play their due role to strengthen Pakistan. He said people from all walks of life should utilise their energies for the country’s betterment and stability.

Elahi unfurled the national flag and later listened to the national anthem and patriotic songs by students drawn from different schools. He commended the students’ performance.

Punjab Communication & Works Minister Chaudhry Zaheeruddin Khan, Tourism Minister Mian Aslam Iqbal and Chief Secretary Salman Siddique and other dignitaries attending the ceremony.

Later, talking to reporters, he said Pakistan would be strengthened with the active role and united efforts by lawyers, media and other segments of society. —APP