ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has paid glowing
tributes to friends in the Muslim Ummah for having assisted Pakistan in
promoting its development goals, and expressed his appreciation for the
support from Muslim countries at difficult phases.
Expressing
his deep pleasure to address this distinguished gathering of the Muslim
diplomats and Ambassadors on today’s auspicious occassion of the Holy
month of Ramadan, the PM cited the most recent example of the
assistance received after the devastating floods last year.
"We
are deeply grateful to you and the friendly peoples of your countries
for being an indispensable source of support and strength to the people
of Pakistan", said tha PM , expressing his gratitude. He also cited
another added significance of the Holy month of Ramadan :" Our great
country, Pakistan, gained independence, 64 years ago, in the holy month
of Ramadan, and for us, in Pakistan, this principle has been a source
of guidance from the earliest days of our independence in 1947"
"The
vision of our founding father, Quaid-e-Azam Mohammed Ali Jinnah,
consistently emphasized the imperative of Islamic brotherhood, goodwill
and cooperation", the PM proclaimed, adding that accordingly, relations
with Muslim countries have remained a cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign
policy.
The PM recounted many instances where Pakistan had
steadfastly supported many Muslim states in their struggle against
colonial rule, and for their right to self-determination. Wherever they
could, my countrymen have contributed to the post-independence nation
building efforts in many Muslim countries. "We continue to espouse the
just Muslim causes around the world and to seek peace and justice, be
it for Palestine or Kashmir or any other troubled part of the world.",
he espoused.
Emphasiszing the highly placed principle of unity
in Islam the PM refered to he teachings of our Prophet (PBUH) that
define the cardinal principles of Islamic solidarity, stressing that
the Muslim world is endowed with immense resources. It has tremendous
trade potential, and huge investment capital. It is seeking deeper
economic integration with other regions.
Focusing on Pakistan precious tradition of close and strong cooperative relations with Muslim countries, the PM declared .
“We
are proud of our friendship with our brothers in the Gulf, in the wide
Middle Eastern region, the African and Asian continents.; and we have
forged close political ties, strengthened trade and economically
related multifaceted relationships with these countries, with a deep
commitment to continue closer cooperation to upgrade our mutually
beneficial cooperation in all fields.
Pinpointing, the
strategic location at the crossroads of three pivotal regions and
industrious nation of 170 million the PM said that Pakistan offered a
large pool of professionally trained manpower, enormous trade and
investment opportunities and one of the most investment friendly
environments; expressing his deep beliefs that " I am convinced that
through strong partnerships, mutual support and mutual solidarity, we
can realize our individual potentials and utilize the Ummah’s
collective strength".
PM also stressed that there was a greater
need for understanding and accommodation among the followers of
different religions., citing actively promoted efforts for inter-faith
dialogue and harmony , welcomng a conference of Imams in Makkah. Online
