ISLAMABAD, April 21: President General Pervez Musharraf on Thursday urged the nation to shun terrorism, sectarianism and communal confrontation to make Pakistan a real Islamic, moderate and enlightened country. “This is also enshrined in the teachings of Islam and obligatory upon us to promote harmony and make Pakistan a real Islamic welfare state,” the president said in his message on the eve of Eid Milad-un-Nabi.

“The birth of the Holy Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) carried a message of peace and harmony for entire humanity and Allah Almighty bestowed the Holy Prophet (PBUH) with a blessing of becoming the harbinger of love, affection and peace for mankind,” he said.

“The Holy Prophet (PBUH) is a symbol of blessing for humanity and taught mankind the lessons of love, affection, harmony and brotherhood,” the president said.

“The teachings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) for reverence and dignity to human life are a beacon of light. This day demands from us that as Muslim, we not only work for preaching the true teachings of Islam for promoting global peace, eternal love and harmony but also stand firm and committed to achieving the revered goals enshrined in the teachings of Islam,” he said.

“This is also a way forward to win the hearts of mankind, secure a respectable place for our country in the comity of nations and promote the true image of Islam,” he added.

In his separate message, Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz urged the nation to forge unity and build a strong Pakistan by adhering to the golden teachings of Islam and by following in the footsteps of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).

“We have to build our country on the principles of self-reliance, in the light of lofty, moderate, enlightened and rightful teachings of Islam,” Mr Aziz said.

The prime minister said many countries were vying for control over the political, cultural, educational, social, and economic spheres in the world.

“Under these circumstances, it is vital to rejuvenate the Islamic Ummah, particularly Pakistan,” he said.

He said the government had prepared a plan of action.

“We have given up the practice of seeking assistance from outsiders and planned to build our country by utilizing our own resources,” Mr Aziz said.

He urged the nation to stand united on every national issue and support the government.

“Let the world know that we are a living nation, enriched with qualities of unity, solidarity, courage and determination, meeting the requirements of modern times,” the prime minister said.

He greeted the Muslims on the auspicious occasion of Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday and said He was not only a blessing for the Muslims, but for the entire humanity. —APP