RAHIM YAR KHAN: President Asif Ali Zardari has said the foremost challenge confronting the country today is to safeguard Pakistan against internal and external threats, as hostile forces are attempting to destabilise the nation through various means.
Addressing a public gathering in Nawazabad on Sunday, he said the enemies of Quaid-i-Azam’s vision look at Pakistan with ill intent, but the nation, united with the strength of its people, will not only respond firmly but will also protect and strengthen the country.
He declared that those who talk about dividing Pakistan would have to pass through their dead bodies. “As long as we are alive, no one can divide this country,” he said, adding the Pakistan Peoples Party was standing firm at the Centre and represents the Federation.
He claimed that the PPP was the only majority party in the country and the true custodian of Pakistan’s unity.
The president said Pakistan Resolution was first passed by the Sindh Assembly and later by the Dhaka Assembly, underscoring the historical foundation of the federation.
Referring to the situation in Balochistan, Zardari warned against elements attempting to mislead the youth and undermine national unity. He asserted that Pakistan would not be allowed to be fragmented and emphasized that while demands may be legitimate, issues must be resolved through dialogue rather than confrontation. He maintained that the country’s resources and mineral wealth must be protected in the national interest.
Criticising certain political leaders, he said that some cannot endure imprisonment for even a year-and-a-half yet call for road blockades from jail.
Responding to a demand raised by a local legislator, Zardari announced that the Sindh government would establish a university in the area and, in his capacity as president, he will grant approval in principle. He expressed his preference for a medical university so that the local population could benefit directly from improved healthcare education and facilities. He added that he would also discuss the matter with the prime minister and Sindh chief minister to ensure the project’s progress.
Highlighting the importance of human capital, the president observed that population growth, if managed effectively, can become a source of national wealth. He stressed the need to strengthen the irrigation system to enhance agricultural productivity, noting that improved water management and increased efforts could significantly raise per-acre crop yields. He encouraged farmers to focus on increasing production and maximising the potential of fertile land in the region.
Speaking on the occasion, former Punjab governor Makhdoom Ahmad Mahmood said the PPP holds a strong position in South Punjab and continued to enjoy overwhelming support in the region. He also expressed satisfaction over the enthusiasm and commitment shown by PPP supporters.
Earlier, President Zardari offered his heartfelt condolence to MPA Mumtaz Ali Chang on the demise of his mother and prayed for the departed soul.
Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider, MNAs Makhdoom Syed Mustafa Mahmood and Makhdoom Syed Murtaza Mahmood, MPA Sardar Raees Nabeel, Sindh minister Haji Ali Hassan Zardari and a large number of party workers attended the gathering.
