Rahim Yar Khan, February 16, 2026 – The Europe Today: President Asif Ali Zardari has said that the foremost challenge facing Pakistan today is to safeguard the country against internal and external threats, warning that hostile forces are attempting to destabilise the nation through various means.
Addressing a public gathering in Rahim Yar Khan, the President stated that enemies of Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s vision look at Pakistan with ill intent, but the nation, united by the strength of its people, will respond firmly and continue to protect and strengthen the country.
President Zardari said the Pakistan Peoples Party represents the federation and embodies the spirit of national unity. He remarked that leadership requires responsibility and courage, adding that those who do not consider themselves capable of fulfilling responsibilities should refrain from assuming them. In an apparent reference to political opponents, he said true leadership demands resilience and steadfastness rather than fear or retreat.
Highlighting his party’s deep historical roots in the region, he said public service remains the cornerstone of his political philosophy. “We all owe a debt to this soil, and the best way to repay it is by serving the people and ensuring their welfare,” he stated.
Responding to a demand raised by a local legislator, the President announced that the Sindh government would establish a university in the area and granted approval in principle in his capacity as President. He expressed a preference for a medical university to enable the local population to benefit directly from improved healthcare education and facilities. He added that he would consult with the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister of Sindh to ensure timely progress on the project.
Emphasising the importance of human capital, President Zardari observed that population growth, if effectively managed, can become a source of national wealth. He stressed the need to strengthen the irrigation system to enhance agricultural productivity, noting that improved water management and increased effort could significantly raise per-acre yields. He encouraged farmers to maximise the potential of the region’s fertile land.
Recalling his earlier tenure, President Zardari underscored the importance of South Punjab, noting that he had appointed Yusuf Raza Gilani as Prime Minister and Makhdoom Ahmad Mahmood as Governor of Punjab to ensure representation and development. He stated that 30 percent of the development budget had been allocated to South Punjab at the time, though only 28 percent could ultimately be utilised.
Paying tribute to party leadership, he said the political vision of Benazir Bhutto remains unparalleled, recalling that despite security warnings from friendly countries, she chose to return to Pakistan to honour her commitment to the people. He added that because of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, he continues to receive love and respect from the public.
Addressing the situation in Balochistan, President Zardari cautioned against elements attempting to mislead the youth and undermine national unity.
Former Governor Punjab Makhdoom Ahmad Mahmood said the PPP maintains a strong position in South Punjab and continues to enjoy widespread support. Member of Provincial Assembly Mumtaz Ali Khan stated that law and order, once the most pressing issue in the area, has significantly improved through cooperation between the Sindh and Punjab governments.
Earlier, President Zardari offered condolences to MPA Mumtaz Ali Chang on the passing of his mother and prayed for eternal peace for the departed soul and strength for the bereaved family.
Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider, Members of the National Assembly Makhdoom Syed Mustafa Mahmood and Makhdoom Syed Murtaza Mahmood, MPA Sardar Raees Nabeel, Provincial Minister Sindh Haji Ali Hassan Zardari, and a large number of party workers attended the gathering.
