I feel honoured to greet Pakistanis living in Switzerland on the occasion of the 59th Independence Day of Pakistan. On this day on August 14, 1947 the Muslims of South Asia achieved an independent homeland of their own under the dynamic leadership of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Let us therefore, on this occasion, renew our pledge to spare no efforts for achieving the goals for which this country was created. We can do this by whole heartedly adhering to the principles of Faith, Unity and Discipline given by Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

Pakistanis are a hard working and moderate people who want to see the country progress and move from strength to strength. Let us also commit ourselves today to make Pakistan a modern and dynamic Islamic welfare state, and to attain the ideals of an enlightened, tolerant and moderate society based on social justice and democracy.

Today, our country has achieved economic stability and is poised for take off. The prudent and far sighted policies and reform agenda of President Pervez Musharraf and Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz have created tremendous opportunities particularly for overseas Pakistanis. The success of the Government's privatization programme attests to the conducive environment for investment in Pakistan.

On this auspicious occasion, I should like to impress upon you that your integration into Swiss society, which is your second home, would give you added strength to contribute towards the progress and prosperity of Pakistan.

May Allah bless Pakistan.