Karachi: A dignified flag-hoisting ceremony was held at the central building of Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) on the occasion of Independence Day.
Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab hoisted the national flag and extended Independence Day greetings to the entire nation, particularly Pakistanis living around the world.
Members of the City Council, elected representatives, heads of various departments, and a large number of officers and employees of KMC attended the ceremony.
Addressing the ceremony, Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab said that freedom is a great blessing bestowed by Allah Almighty, and its true value can be understood by nations deprived of such a precious blessing. Independence Day reminds us to love and remain loyal to our homeland and to play a practical role in its development and prosperity.
He said that the joy of independence should not be limited to August 14; rather, we should spend the entire year with a spirit of serving our country and working for its dignity and progress. The entire nation will stand united against any action threatening Pakistan’s sovereignty and integrity, and the Pakistani nation will stand like a strong wall in defence of the homeland.
He said that KMC is one of the major institutions responsible for providing municipal services in the city, and improving its efficiency is among our fundamental priorities. KMC officers and employees should consider serving citizens their responsibility and perform their duties with hard work, sincerity and dedication so that maximum facilities and relief can be provided to the people.
Mayor Karachi said that serious measures are being taken to resolve Karachi’s longstanding and fundamental problems. Various initiatives are underway through integrated planning and an effective strategy to address the difficulties faced by citizens. Our effort is to make the municipal system more effective and provide better services to the people.
He said that Independence Day reminds us of the great sacrifices that led to Pakistan emerging on the world map as an independent state. This day provides us with an opportunity to renew our commitment to unity, sacrifice, struggle and loyalty to our homeland. Our elders made unparalleled sacrifices for the creation of Pakistan, and we must protect and value this freedom.
He said that building a strong, developed and prosperous Pakistan requires promoting national unity by rising above all linguistic, ethnic and other differences. The progress of the country is possible only when every citizen recognizes their responsibility and contributes to nation-building.
He said that adherence to truth, justice and principles is an important part of our national life. We must build a peaceful, stable and prosperous Pakistan for future generations. Independence Day provides us with an opportunity to pledge that we will utilize all our abilities for the development and security of our country.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab offered a special prayer for the security, stability, development and prosperity of Pakistan and expressed his resolve that Pakistan would continue to move forward with honour, dignity, peace and progress.
