President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have expressed their firm resolve to take all possible measures to safeguard and promote democratic values and norms in the country.In their separate messages on International Day of Democracy today (Monday), they stressed the need for joint endeavours for strengthening democratic institutions. 

The President in his message said it is through democracy that we can ensure socio-economic justice, freedom of expression, and rule of law. He said Pakistan's political journey has been shaped by the courage and dedication of visionary leaders like Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, whose sacrifices laid the groundwork for strengthening of democratic institutions. 

In his message, the Prime Minister said this day provides an opportunity to reflect on effectiveness of democracy as a system of government at the global level. He said Pakistan has not only worked to uphold and promote democratic values within the country but also at global level. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has paid rich tributes to the torch bearers of democracy. 

In her message on World Democracy Day, she said that the government will make democracy such an asset which may survive storms of future time. The Punjab Chief Minister said democracy needs nourishment in Pakistan to present an example before the world. Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah says democracy is the voice of the people and its protection is mandatory for everyone. 

In his message on democracy day being observed across the world today Syed Murad Ali Shah said the strength of democratic institutions is the guarantee of the stability of the country. He expressed his government's commitment to promote democratic institutions.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)