Pakistan Leaders Pay Tribute to Allama Iqbal on His Birth Anniversary

ISLAMABAD: On the birth anniversary of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, observed on November 9, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged the nation to draw inspiration from the Poet of the East’s vision to build a prosperous and united Pakistan.

President Zardari highlighted Iqbal’s role in awakening the spirit of independence and self-determination among Muslims of the subcontinent. He said Iqbal’s literary works, including Asrar-e-Khudi, Rumuz-e-Bekhudi, and Bang-e-Dara, continue to shape Pakistan’s identity and inspire generations. He prayed that Iqbal’s vision guides the nation towards progress, peace, and unity.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called Iqbal a “spiritual and intellectual force” whose teachings of faith, knowledge, and action remain relevant for national development. He emphasized that the government is promoting modern education, skills, and employment opportunities for youth through initiatives like Uraan Pakistan, reflecting Iqbal’s idea of young people as the “falcons of the future.”

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Sharif also highlighted Iqbal’s message of unity, calling for brotherhood, love, tolerance, and justice in society. He said Iqbal’s philosophy should guide Pakistan’s policies to realize “the Pakistan of Iqbal’s dreams.”

A ceremonial change of guard was also held at the Iqbal Mausoleum, with Rear Admiral Sohail Ahmad Azmie, Commander Central Punjab of the Pakistan Navy, as the chief guest. The Pakistan Navy contingent took over ceremonial guard duties, and a floral wreath was laid at the mausoleum in tribute to Allama Iqbal.