PM Shahbaz vows to transform Pakistan into economic power

Tariq Butt, Correspondent

Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif stressed for holding of a national dialogue and developing a consensus on charter of economy by all the stakeholders to transform Pakistan into an economic power.

Addressing a national flag-hoisting and unveiling of re-recording ceremony of the national anthem at the Jinnah Convention Centre, the prime minister said that like their forefathers, on this 75th Independence Day, they vowed to transform Pakistan into an economic power.

Earlier, the nation celebrated its diamond jubilee with traditional zeal and fervour, with commemorative ceremonies having been held in different cities.

In this combo photo, students wave national flags during a ceremony to celebrate Pakistan's 75th Independence Day in Karachi and Quetta. Reuters

"If we can become a nuclear power, we can also become an economic power but for it we have to strive day and night and prove to the world that we are no less than anyone," the prime minister said.

"Pakistan Movement is a lesson for everyone," he said, adding that no amount of hurdles could deter a nation from achieving its goals once it decided its path.
The premier also urged the nation to play a role in the country's development by following Quaid-e-Azam's principles of unity, faith and discipline. He also said that the nation should identify the mistake of the past in order to avoid repeating them in the future.

Earlier, in separate messages, the prime minister and President Arif Alvi congratulated the country on 75 years of independence.

Indian officer Jasbir Singh (L) gives sweets to Pakistan's Rangers wing commander Aamir during a ceremony to celebrate Pakistan's 75th Independence Day at the Wagah border post. AFP

On the occasion, President Alvi also conferred civil awards on 253 Pakistani citizens and foreign nationals. The citizens were bestowed with awards for showing excellence and courage in different fields.

The president also conferred military awards on the officers and soldiers of the Pakistan Army, Navy and Air Force. He gave two Sitara-e-Basalat, 68 Tamgha-e-Basalat, 33 Imtiazi Asnad, 68 COAS Commendation Cards, 22 Hilal-e-Imtiaz (Military), 102 Sitara-e-Imtiaz (Military) and 130 Tamgha-e-Imtiaz (Military).