President Asif Ali Zardari has addressed a joint session of parliament to mark the beginning of the parliamentary year.
Opposition lawmakers staged a protest during the president’s address, chanting, “Go, Zardari, go” slogans.
President Zardari said that addressing parliament for the ninth time — and for the second time as an elected head of state — was a reaffirmation of democratic continuity and constitutional responsibility.
In his address marking the commencement of the new parliamentary year, he said that nations were tested not only in times of crisis but also at defining moments.
He urged lawmakers to carry forward their commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty, upholding constitutional supremacy and advancing economic development.
He stressed the need to promote prosperity, peace, stability and sustainable growth for citizens, noting that Pakistan stands today on the foundations laid by the architects of its national struggle.
President Zardari said Muhammad Ali Jinnah had envisaged a democratic state rooted in constitutionalism and the rule of law.
He added that Zulfikar Ali Bhutto gave the nation a unanimous Constitution, while Benazir Bhutto strengthened the democratic process through sacrifice and exemplary leadership.
Turning to security matters, the president said Pakistani armed forces had transformed the Indian aggression into a historic strategic success during “Marka-e-Haq”.
He maintained that whenever national sovereignty was challenged on any front, Pakistan responded with resolve and unity.
Over the past ten months, he said, the nation had confronted complex challenges. He went on to say that the armed forces demonstrated professionalism and discipline in responding to unprovoked attacks on both eastern and western borders.
This is a developing story and is being updated with more details.
