Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani on Thursday said that the coalition government was mandated by people to eliminate dictatorship and ensure strong democracy vital for sustainable development and economically vibrant Pakistan.
Addressing the flag hoisting ceremony here to mark the Independence Day, the Prime Minister promised to make Pakistan a real democratic, progressive, prosperous, moderate and strong country with the support of people.
Gilani said his government would take along all the political forces for the end of dictatorship, urging them to join hands together to shut the doors of dictatorship in the country forever. "The period of oppression is over. Dictatorship has become a story of the past," he said the government was following the policy of reconciliation for national progress. "Democracy, he said was achieved after great sacrifices and everyone needs to work with responsibility to materialise the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah that provides justice as well as peace and stability besides equal economic opportunities.
The Prime Minister said it is time to ensure supremacy of public power through their representatives and work for unity and integrity of the country to fulfil the vision of our forefathers who wanted to see Pakistan free from prejudices.
Gilani said the country was passing through a critical juncture amid challenges of extremism, terrorism, price hike, unemployment and power crisis that are threatening its very foundations. He, however, vowed that no effort would be spared to curb the menace of terrorism.
Noting that Islam preaches tolerance, brotherhood, peace and love, he made it clear that the government would never allow terrorists to accomplish their evil designs. He said his government has told the United States clearly that Pakistan would never allow unilateral action on its soil.
The Prime Minister underlined the need for rebuilding the democratic institutions, which are vital for the progress and prosperity of the country. He said the coalition government has adopted a policy of reconciliation to achieve progress and development.
He also announced to launch crop insurance scheme and said the government itself would pay premium on behalf of small growers. He announced remission upto three months for prisoners and special concessions for women, old age persons and children in this regard.
The Prime Minister said the government is also aware of the problem of missing persons and is making all-out efforts for their early recovery. About the defence of the country, he said that Pakistan army is fully capable of protecting geographical borders of the country. He said more resources would be provided to the armed forces to beef up the defence of the country.