August 14, 2026.

Heartfelt congratulations to all Pakistanis at home and abroad on the joyous occasion of Independence Day! On this blessed moment marking the completion of 79 years of Pakistan's independence, I extend my deepest felicitations to all compatriots.

It is a matter of pride and honor for us that the struggle for freedom included the Father of the Nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Thinker of Pakistan, Poet of the East Allama Muhammad Iqbal, and numerous other great and unparalleled leaders. Today, as a nation, we pay tribute to the leaders, workers of the freedom movement, and our forefathers.

Through the sagacious and visionary leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the immense sacrifices of our forefathers, the unwavering resolve of the freedom movement's leaders, and above all, the boundless grace and mercy of Almighty Allah, the dream of an independent homeland was realized.

The inspiring political struggle of all the leaders of the freedom movement united the Muslims of India toward the goal of a free homeland. Our forefathers inscribed an immortal saga of sacrifices, hardships, and tribulations, and the struggle for independence culminated in success.

On August 14, 1947, we attained a land where we could establish a life of dignity and honor as a free nation, in accordance with our faith and civilizational values. The land of Pakistan guarantees complete freedom without discrimination of color or race to all citizens, in line with Islamic teachings and the vision of the Father of the Nation. The Constitution and laws of Pakistan are guarantors of the rights of all citizens.

The journey toward Pakistan's progress and prosperity is marching toward a bright future. Pakistani men and women have written chapters of determination and resolve through their efforts in the defense of the homeland, economy, industry and crafts, judiciary, media, sports, education and skills, scholars, intellectuals, teachers, scientists, agriculture and farming, and including modern sectors of the present era.

Our talented youth, skilled workforce, outstanding professional experts, toiling farmers, and hardworking laborers are the guarantors of the nation's radiant future.

The Government of Pakistan has, over the past two and a half years, navigated extremely challenging phases to achieve the goal of a stable economy and is now successfully advancing toward the destination of a developed economy. Over the last two years, remittances from overseas Pakistanis have increased by $11.3 billion, which is a manifestation of the continuous trust of overseas Pakistanis in government policies.

Equipped with modern information technology, adorned with innovation, sustainable industrial and agricultural development, public welfare projects, employment opportunities, and a system of world-class education and skills are among our top priorities.

Our brave armed forces have, in every difficulty and in response to every enemy strike, proven the defense of the motherland impregnable. Pakistan takes pride in its valiant armed forces. In the battle for truth, the armed forces, under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, have demonstrated unity, resolve, and unparalleled bravery, scripting a new history of the defense and glory of the dear homeland. Pakistan will not hesitate to make any sacrifice for the protection of its defense, water resources, and national interests.

Today, Pakistan is recognized in the community of nations as a strong, resolute, dignified, and powerful voice for peace. In the region's difficult and challenging geopolitical situation, Pakistan has emerged as a responsible nation and guarantor of stability in the region, playing a constructive role in promoting peace, stability, and regional cooperation.

The joint defense agreement reached in Mecca between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye is an important manifestation of Pakistan's growing strategic role and emerging strength in the region.

Pakistan extends complete solidarity to the oppressed Palestinian people and its brothers and sisters in Jammu and Kashmir, and reiterates its unwavering principled support for them. The guarantee of lasting peace in South Asia lies in a diplomatic resolution to the Jammu and Kashmir issue in accordance with UN resolutions, international laws, and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

Today, on Independence Day, the entire nation is indebted to the brave armed forces, the valiant youth of law enforcement agencies, the ghazis, and all the martyrs who laid down their lives for the future of the nation.

Let us, today, renew our national resolve that we will work with full vigor as one unit for the progress and prosperity of Pakistan, peace and stability, and mutual harmony and unity. Today, I extend a sincere invitation to the entire nation, including all segments and political parties, to come together and engage in constructive efforts for the territorial integrity of the country and the protection and promotion of national interests.

May Almighty Allah make Pakistan a symbol of honor and dignity in the world and bless it with successes. Amen!