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ISLAMABAD, Jul 21 (APP):Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal on Monday said that this year the nation would celebrate its Independence Day with a unique style and enthusiasm.
He expressed these views while chairing a meeting to review arrangements for the Marka-e-Haq and August 14 (Independence Day) ceremonies, a news release said.
The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, Minister of State for Interior and Narcotics Control Talal Chaudhry, and senior officers from relevant ministries, ISPR, provincial governments and partner institutions.
During the meeting, the concerned ministries briefed participants on their proposed plans and measures for the Marka-e-Haq celebrations.
Ahsan Iqbal described Operation Bunyan al-Marsoos as clear proof of Pakistan’s defense sovereignty.
Through a befitting Marka-e-Haq and Independence Day celebrations, he said, the world would receive a strong message that Pakistan was progressing toward new heights of development.
Vowing to make the country’s economy as invincible as its defense, he said, “Nations achieve development through determination, courage and organization. This is the message of the Marka-e-Haq.”
The minister said the Pakistani nation possessed all the abilities found in citizens of any developed country, stressing that every individual must contribute to the struggle for Marka-e-Haq of the national development.
He further remarked that the country’s security and sovereignty were owed to the sacrifices of martyrs, and paying tribute to them should be an integral part of the celebrations.
Ahsan Iqbal also highlighted the role of overseas Pakistanis in promoting a positive image of the country worldwide during the Marka-e-Haq and Independence Day celebrations.
He directed Pakistani diplomatic missions to mobilize students and local communities for this purpose.
Besides, he instructed the Higher Education Commission (HEC) to organize essay writing and fine arts competitions, stressing the importance of instilling the true spirit of Independence Day among the youth through these activities, including speech competitions and art exhibitions at the university level.
The Planning Minister also directed all provincial governments and relevant departments to ensure foolproof security for the events marking Marka-e-Haq and Independence Day.