ISLAMABAD - Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday congratulated the people on the 78th anniversary of national independence, urging unity, economic stability, and commitment to defending national sovereignty.

In his message, Sharif paid tribute to Pakistan's founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah, poet-philosopher Allama Muhammad Iqbal, and leaders of the independence movement, crediting their vision and determination for turning the dream of an independent homeland into reality.

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He stated that over the past 78 years, Pakistan has faced numerous challenges but also achieved milestones in various fields, including the economy, sports, defense, and technology.

The prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to peaceful coexistence and resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomacy.

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He stressed that, like military strength, a stable economy is essential for safeguarding sovereignty, and called on all political parties and segments of society to unite for national progress.