Address at the Joint Services Parade at Rawalpindi On March 23, 1973

The 23rd of March has a special significance in our national history. It was on this day, 33 years ago, that at a glorious congregation in Lahore, the Muslims of the subcontinent, under the leadership of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, resolved to establish a free and independent homeland where they could have religious, cultural and social freedom and could live independently of the British and Hindu domination.

By the grace of Allah and as a result of efforts and sacrifices of the nation and the selfless leadership o the Quaid-i-Azam, Pakistan came into being on August 14, 1947. The hardships which Pakistan had to face after independence are no secret. But I have a firm belief that the dark clouds are about to disappear. The positive cooperation of the nation and the excellent performance of the Armed Forces shall, Insha Allah, guarantee the country’s security and its bright future.

On this memorable day, let me tell you that the main focus of all my Government’s attention is our prisoners, numbering over 90,000, who are still languishing in the Indian Camps. All possible efforts are being made for their repatriation and I hope that they shall, Insha Allah, return soon and assume their positions of responsibility in the Armed Forces and other departments.

The high standard of today’s parade is a source of pride and satisfaction. For this I congratulate you all.

Pakistan Paindabad.