WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 22, 2010) – The White House Office of the Press Secretary on Monday released a statement from President Barack Obama on the occasion of Pakistan National Day.With roots in activism that spurred through the 1930s leading to the Lahore Resolution of March 23, 1940 – Muslims in South Asia had a goal of creating Pakistan. First as an independent Muslim majority state of India following its independence from the British Empire in 1947, it ceded altogether with the creation of the Republic of Pakistan on March 23, 1956.
“On behalf of the American people, I send my best wishes to the people of Pakistan and all those of Pakistani descent here in America and around the world observing Pakistan National Day,” stated Obama.
“Seventy years ago, Muhammad Ali Jinnah and those of the independence generation declared their dreams of self-determination and democracy,” he added. “Today, the people of Pakistan are carrying on the great work of Quaid-e Azam.
“In these efforts, the American people are proud to join in the education, health and economic partnerships that can improve the daily lives of Pakistanis and their families,” Obama added. “Here in the United States, our country is enriched by the many Pakistani Americans who excel as doctors, small business owners, students, members of our armed forces and in many other fields.
“On this National Day, we give thanks for the contributions of these fellow Americans, and the United States pledges to remain a partner of all Pakistanis who seek to build a future of peace and prosperity.”
