ISLAMABAD, Jun 5 (APP): Prime Minister Imran Khan Saturday called on the world to fight back for ecosystem restoration during the next decade and particularly retold the rich countries to assist the poor ones bearing the brunt of their immense carbon emissions.
“Pakistan has minimal contribution in carbon emission. The rich countries responsible for huge carbon emission have the responsibility to at least provide fund so that the countries like ours may fight global warming, improve our environment. The issue is resources gap,” he said addressing the main ceremony of World Environment Day hosted by Pakistan here.
Telecast globally, the event featured the special messages of Chinese President Xi Jinping, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and address by Executive Director of the UN Environment Program Inger Anderson besides State Minister Zartaj Gul and SAPM Amin Aslam.
Held at the beautifully adorned Convention Center with themed green and themed ambience by plants and decorations, the event was attended by the federal ministers, parliamentarians and diplomats from various countries.
A huge number of forest guards was also present who earned huge applause from the audience as the prime minister also paid huge tribute to their efforts and sacrifices to preserve the environment.
Explaining the resource constraints in Pakistan, the prime minister said during the pandemic, Pakistan with a population of 220 million could only scrape around $8 billion for relief package while 330 million nation of United States doled out a package of 4,000 billion to its people.
He told the world that half of Pakistan’s revenue went to debt servicing leaving the government with insufficient resources to support people’s health, education, security and other expenditures.
He reiterated that the resource rich countries should support the developing countries who were fighting the war of climate change. He particularly thanked the UNEP and UN Secretary General for repeatedly pressing the rich countries to take their carbon responsibilities.
He said Pakistan was also making efforts to further reduce its already minimal emissions by switching 30% of its all vehicles to electric transmission and ensure 60% of its power generation through renewable resources by 2030.
He said it was an honor for Pakistan to host World Environment Day which depicted the recognition of Pakistan’s efforts and inclusion among few countries concerned for a better environment for future generations.
The prime minister also urged the nation particularly youth to take responsibility of the environment friendly initiatives so that the world could fight back for ecosystem restoration during UN Decade for Ecosystem Restoration 2021-2030.
He said like the developing countries, the teachers in Pakistan should also teach the importance of trees to inculcate in them the responsibility for environment conservation.
He while carrying out any activity, the people must consider its impact on future generations, though some countries had been taking care of their environment since the beginning.
He said unfortunately Pakistan was among those countries where environment protection was nowhere among the government’s priorities. He recalled that since its inception till launch of On Billion Tree Tsunami in KP in 2013, the country had planted only 640 million trees.
However, the PTI government, after success of One Billion Tree Tsunami, launched Ten Billion Tree Tsunami and also planted first billion of them.
He lamented the massive deforestation particularly at the Chhanga Manga, Kundian, Chichawatni and Dipalpur forests where the land mafias had occupied the forest land.
He said the UN Decade was an opportunity for the world to correct its course by fighting back the pollution, ensure clean water and reduced carbon emissions.
He seconded UK Prime Minister’s words that the future generations would have to bear the cost if we failed to protect environment.
He said apart from measures introduced by Pakistan, some issues needed world’s attention to reduce carbon emission leading to glacier melting posing threats to countries like Pakistan and Central Asia where rivers were fed by glaciers.
The prime minister said COVID-19 pandemic had made it clear that the world was interdependent with nothing bound by borders. Same was the case with global warming which was equally impacting the world in one way or the other, he added.
He said the whole nation would have to realize that tree plantation was good for their children’s future which retain water, clean air, and restore wildlife and birdlife.
He apprised the gathering of his government’s future initiatives including Recharge Pakistan – to divert flood water to wetland to recharge water table and Mangroves forestation which absorb carbon besides others.
He repeatedly called for public participation in the environment projects to make them stakeholders by giving them jobs and incentives, just like the Ten Billion Tree Tsunami which had provided 85,000 jobs so far.
He said the government had developed 15 National Parks and special guards would be trained for their protection.
He particularly lauded Punjab government for converting brick kilns to zigzag technology to reduce their pollution level.
State Minister for Climate Change Zartaj Gul said having planted first billion trees, the government was fully prepared to plant rest nine billion trees.
The government was also about to launch a food security program for South Punjab besides introducing a bill to encourage the youth’s participation in tree plantation by giving them an incentive of 20 marks in their studies, she added.
SAPM Malik Amin Aslam said Pakistan had made a commitment to restore 10 hectares of land and was also increased the protected areas by engaging the population.
He also highlighted the Green Bond and Nature Bond initiatives of Pakistan to provide the country with accelerated access to development financing and debt relief in exchange for meeting ecosystem restoration targets.
Earlier, in his message read out by Chinese Ambassador Nong Rong, Chinese President Xi Jinping congratulated the government and people of Pakistan for hosting the global event.
He said the ecosystem restoration was essential in order to live in harmony with nature. He called for international community’s role for environmental protection and ensure the sustainable development.
Reiterating China’s commitment to environment preservation, Xi appreciated Government of Pakistan for environment friendly initiatives and said that his country was ready to work with the host country on the subject.
Prime Minister of UK Boris Johnson, in his video message also spoke high of Ten Billion Tree Tsunami project saying “I salute what Prime Minister Imran Khan is doing. I think 10 billion trees is a huge campaign,” he remarked.
He viewed that the COVID-19 pandemic was mother nature’s revenge on humankind which could not maintain balance with nature. He called for redoubling the efforts to ensure environment protection and make a balance with nature.
UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, in his video message, said the world was rapidly reaching the point of no return for the planet.
He said the world was faced with a triple environmental emergency –biodiversity loss, climate disruption and escalating pollution.
He said the climate change was risking the world in form of shortage food, water and resources as the degradation of the natural world was already undermining the well-being of 3.2 billion people – or 40 per cent of humanity.
He said the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration would help create millions of new jobs by 2030, generate returns of over $7 trillion dollars every year and help eliminate poverty and hunger.
“So let today be the start of new decade in which finally we make peace with nature and secure a better future for all,” he remarked.
Executive Director UNEP Inger Anderson said the UN Decade was aimed at reversing the damages caused by the world to the environment.
“Pakistan is showing us a way. Prime Minister Imran Khan recently planted one billionth tree of Ten Billion Tree Tsunami. Bravo to all,” he remarked.
She said the test for Pakistan and all nations was to build the momentum and fulfil their commitment.
Referring to an analysis of Pakistan’s growing inclusive wealth due to forestation, she said Pakistan’s economy was moving on right direction.
She urged Pakistan to keep delivering on its ambitious commitments and encouraged all other nations to follow Pakistan’s leadership and make this decade a roaring success.
President Word Economic Forum Borge Brende said the more than half of the world’s GDP was highly dependent with the nature. He said by 2025, an estimated 1.8 billion people would suffer absolute water scarcity and two-thirds of the world will be living under water shortages.
He said the UN Decade was set to unleash a global ecopreneurship for a ecosystem restoration. He said the WEF offered youth leaders and innovators of all natures an opportunity to share their best solution for ecosystem restoration.
The event also featured the musical performance of artists from Balochistan on theme song of World Environment Day as well as Abrarul Haq who thrilled the audience through his hymn “Tere Rang Rang.”
The nation is celebrating the 148th birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah today with national zeal and fervour.
Today is a public holiday and national flag is hoisting atop all public and private buildings.
The day dawned with gun salutes in the federal and provincial capitals.
A graceful changing of the guard’s ceremony is being held at the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi.
Quran Khawani would also be held at the Mazar-e-Quaid.
The guiding motto of Pakistan, “Unity, Faith, and Discipline,” holds profound significance in shaping the national identity of Pakistanis as “Aik Qaum” (One Nation). These three words, coined by the country’s founding father, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, form the bedrock of the national ethos. They represent the essential pillars upon which Pakistan was built and must continue to stand in pursuit of progress, solidarity, and global stature.
This motto is not just a political slogan or a patriotic catchphrase; it is an enduring call for the people of Pakistan to unite under a common banner of national purpose, to have faith in their capabilities, and to uphold the discipline needed for personal and national success. In this detailed article, we will explore the deeper meanings and implications of unity, faith, and discipline, and how these principles guide the vision of Pakistan as a united and resilient nation.
Unity: The Power of Togetherness
Unity is the first and foremost element of Pakistan’s national motto. It emphasizes the importance of national cohesion and solidarity across the diverse ethnic, linguistic, and religious landscape of Pakistan. As a nation that emerged from the crucible of colonialism and division, Pakistan’s unity has always been central to its survival and growth.
At its core, unity signifies a collective commitment to the country’s well-being, transcending personal or communal differences. Pakistan is home to a wide variety of cultures, languages, and sects, from the Punjabis, Sindhis, Pashtuns, and Baloch to religious minorities such as Christians, Hindus, and Sikhs. The concept of unity calls for embracing this diversity as a source of strength, rather than as a source of division.
Historically, the drive for unity was integral to the Pakistan Movement, which brought together Muslims from different regions of British India to fight for a common homeland. Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah recognized that only through unity could the Muslims of the subcontinent secure their political, economic, and social rights. His vision for Pakistan was one where all citizens, regardless of their background, would work together for the common good.
In modern-day Pakistan, unity remains vital for addressing the challenges of sectarianism, regionalism, and external threats. A united Pakistan is better equipped to deal with issues such as poverty, terrorism, and political instability. The concept of unity fosters a sense of belonging and national pride, urging Pakistanis to think of themselves as one people, with one purpose, under one flag.
Faith: Belief in a Higher Cause and in Ourselves
Faith is the second pillar of Pakistan’s motto and is deeply rooted in the spiritual and ideological foundation of the country. Pakistan was established as a homeland for Muslims, and faith in Islam has always been central to its identity. However, faith as a motto goes beyond mere religious belief; it encompasses a broader sense of confidence, trust, and belief in a higher cause, in the potential of the nation, and in the resilience of its people.
For Pakistan, faith is twofold: it represents both religious faith and faith in the nation’s future. Pakistanis draw strength from their spiritual beliefs, finding unity and purpose in the teachings of Islam, which emphasize justice, equality, and community welfare. This religious faith provides a moral compass for both governance and daily life, promoting values such as honesty, compassion, and responsibility.
Faith also refers to belief in Pakistan’s potential. Pakistan has faced numerous challenges since its inception in 1947, from wars and natural disasters to political turmoil and economic crises. Through it all, the faith of its people in the country’s resilience and eventual success has been unwavering. This faith in Pakistan’s ability to rise above adversity and build a better future remains a key motivator for both the government and the citizenry.
Jinnah, in his speeches, often urged Pakistanis to have faith in themselves, in their institutions, and in their destiny. He believed that faith in the country’s foundational principles would ensure its survival and prosperity. In today’s rapidly changing world, this faith is crucial in fostering optimism, innovation, and national pride among Pakistanis.
Discipline: The Key to Progress and Stability
The third and final element of Pakistan’s national motto is discipline, a principle that Jinnah regarded as essential for the development of a strong, stable, and successful nation. Discipline is the cornerstone of order, efficiency, and progress. It demands that citizens and leaders alike act with responsibility, accountability, and foresight.
For Pakistan to achieve its full potential, discipline is required at both the individual and institutional levels. On a personal level, discipline involves hard work, ethical behavior, and adherence to the rule of law. It requires Pakistanis to be diligent in their pursuits, whether in education, work, or civic duties, and to prioritize the common good over personal gain.
On a broader scale, national discipline means the effective functioning of the state, including the proper management of resources, the upholding of justice, and the fair enforcement of laws. A disciplined nation adheres to democratic values, maintains the integrity of its institutions, and operates with transparency and accountability. Discipline ensures that the country can handle crises, avoid corruption, and build a sustainable economy.
Jinnah himself was a model of discipline. His dedication to the cause of Pakistan, his meticulous planning, and his unwavering commitment to the principles of justice and fairness were key factors in the success of the Pakistan Movement. He emphasized that without discipline, a nation could not stand firm, nor could it achieve its desired goals.
Today, Pakistan faces numerous challenges that require discipline in governance, education, healthcare, and defense. The globalized world presents both opportunities and obstacles, and only through disciplined efforts can Pakistan compete on the world stage. Whether in fighting corruption, strengthening institutions, or promoting social cohesion, discipline remains a critical factor in Pakistan’s progress.
The Relevance of “Unity, Faith, and Discipline” in Modern Pakistan
As Pakistan navigates the 21st century, the principles of unity, faith, and discipline are more relevant than ever. These values are not just historical legacies but are guiding principles for Pakistan’s future as a vibrant, resilient, and prosperous nation. In an era of rapid globalization, technological advancement, and shifting political dynamics, these ideals provide a steady framework for national development and collective progress.
Unity is vital for overcoming internal divisions and presenting a strong, cohesive front on the international stage.
Faith continues to be a source of strength, providing hope, moral guidance, and belief in the country’s bright future.
Discipline is crucial for tackling corruption, ensuring effective governance, and building a strong economy capable of competing globally.
In conclusion, “Unity, Faith, and Discipline” remains the heart of the Pakistani identity as “Aik Qaum” (One Nation). It encapsulates the aspirations of a people who, despite facing numerous challenges, remain committed to the vision of a united, just, and prosperous Pakistan. These principles, when embraced and practiced by all Pakistanis, have the power to shape a future that honors the past while paving the way for new achievements on the world stage.
The APS (Army Public School) attack was a defining moment in Pakistan’s history. While the pain and scars will never fully heal, the resilience shown by the nation proves its unwavering determination to stand against terrorism. The martyrs of Army Public School are remembered as symbols of hope and courage, inspiring a better and more peaceful future for Pakistan.
“We will never forget, and we will never forgive.”
