Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari, in his New Year message for 2026, urged Pakistanis to engage in national soul-searching and renew their commitment to Pakistan’s future. As the country approaches its 79th Independence Day, Zardari highlighted the importance of collective resolve in addressing global and domestic challenges.
President Zardari acknowledged the multifaceted challenges facing the world, including wars, extremism, economic instability, and climate change. He emphasized that while Pakistan is not immune to these issues, it is equipped to confront them with unity and resilience.
He outlined the global economic landscape’s influence on Pakistan, stressing the need for economic discipline and investment in education, healthcare, and emerging technologies. Zardari also identified climate change as a pressing national security issue, urging immediate adaptation and mitigation efforts.
Addressing the internal political climate, Zardari called for civility and responsibility in political discourse. He urged political forces to engage constructively within Parliament to strengthen state institutions. He also emphasized the need for national reconciliation and healing, advocating for cooperation over confrontation.
The President reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peace while underscoring the non-negotiable nature of the country’s defense. He criticized India’s actions concerning water resources and reiterated Pakistan’s right to address such issues through all possible means.
Zardari expressed Pakistan’s dedication to being a responsible global member, advocating for peaceful resolutions to disputes with India and urging Afghanistan’s authorities to honor international agreements. He also voiced hope for an end to global conflicts, including the Ukraine-Russia war, and reiterated support for the Palestinian people’s rights.
In conclusion, Zardari called for unity, restraint, and renewal as the nation enters 2026, emphasizing Pakistan’s role as a peacemaker and stabilizing force on the international stage.