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MESSAGE

Raja Pervez Ashraf Prime Minister of Pakistan
ON the auspicious occasion of 66th Day of Independence, I would like to extend my felicitations to my countrymen including the overseas
Pakistanis.
August 14, 1947 saw the successful culmination of a heroic struggle of the Muslims of the sub-continent for their right to have a separate homeland.
Pakistan appeared on the world map through a democratic struggle and its progress and prosperity lies in continuation of the democratic system as well.
The present coalition government has undertaken various historic initiatives during the last four and a half years and pursued a policy of reconciliation. The passage of the 18thConstitutional Amendment empowered the federating units administratively as well as politically. The consensual adoption of the 7th National Finance Commission Award increased the share of the provinces in the federal divisible pool. Besides, Benazir
Income Support Programme, a flagship programme of the government, has focused on women empowerment and welfare of the poorest segments of society.
We have refashioned our country's foreign policy in accord with Parliamentary guidelines and national interest.
This year, the 14th of August falls in the holy month of Ramadan. Thus this holy month carries added significance for us.
On this blessed occasion, we bow our head in eternal gratitude to Allah Almighty for His favours and pray for the security, unity, progress and prosperity of the country.
I am reminded of Quaid-i-Azam's message on the inauguration of Pakistan Broadcasting Service on August 15,1947. The Quaid-i-Azam said: "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 can a nation, containing many elements, live in peace and amity and work for the betterment of all its citizens, irrespective of caste and creed."
Despite difficulties, Pakistan is a vibrant polity where judiciary is independent, Parliament is functioning, media is vocal and free, and civil society is active.
We are confronted with various challenges such as energy crisis, law and order problem, economic difficulties, terrorism, and extremism, which have slowed down the pace of socio-economic development.
We are a resolute and determined nation and can overcome these daunting challenges if we demonstrate tolerance, national unity, solidarity and understanding.
Let us pledge to work together and commit ourselves to the progress and prosperity of our nation by setting aside our mutual differences so that the country can get its rightful place in the comity of nations.