Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistan’s youth are not cockroaches but Iqbal’s Shaheens and urged them to pursue excellence, confidence, and innovation.
Addressing the launch ceremony of a national anthem marking Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day and the 150th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the minister said the event represented a renewed commitment to national unity, progress, and development.
Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistan’s ideological foundation was shaped by the vision of Allama Muhammad Iqbal and Quaid-e-Azam.
The minister said 2026 provides an opportunity for the nation to reaffirm its commitment to the ideals of Pakistan’s founders.
He rejected claims of institutional failure. “This is not the era of system failure; it is the era of national reform,” he said.
He added that Pakistan is modernizing its institutions, governance structure, and national priorities to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
He stressed that Pakistan’s development cannot be achieved by governments alone and requires the combined efforts of youth, experts, the private sector, civil society, and state institutions.
The minister recalled that in 2022 many analysts had predicted Pakistan would default and face economic collapse but collective efforts, policy measures, and national resilience helped the country overcome those challenges and move towards economic stability.
He added that the government is investing in artificial intelligence, digital skills, and modern technologies to equip young Pakistanis for future opportunities.
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