ISLAMABAD: In his New Year felicitation message, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq hoped that the dawn of 2017 will usher Pakistan into a new year of sustained economic growth coupled with uplift of the people and consolidation of democracy. “The upcoming 2017 will surely bear witness to the fact that we have decisively turned a page in our history and have embarked upon our national journey afresh with the resolve to overcome the challenges of the era.” He reiterated the government’s resolve to an inclusive democracy dedicated to the uplift of the downtrodden and streamlining of the marginalised strata of the society. He remarked that the days of terrorism in Pakistan are numbered. He expressed his confidence that 2017 will further consolidate Pakistan’s march towards peace and prosperity. The speaker paid a rich tribute to the services of the armed forces and law enforcers for the defence, integrity and security of Pakistan and added that the nation stands in solidarity with the families of martyrs. Referring to Pakistan’s challenges, he remarked that the march of resilient Pakistani state and society will overcome the mounting challenges. He urged his fellow countrymen to shun all the differences and unite under the banner of faith, unity and discipline as espoused by the founding father. He underlined the need for promoting religious harmony and interfaith dialogue to pursue the ideals of equal development and mutual coexistence as central element for a pluralistic Pakistani state. The speaker hoped that Pakistan will continue to reverse the tides of poverty by enriching the youth bulge with employable skills and spirit of entrepreneurship. Referring to Pakistan’s regional objectives, he highlighted that Pakistan is committed to a peaceful South Asian region and will continue to cooperate with other regional players for peace in the region. Wishing a happy New Year to the people of Pakistan, he hoped that the nation will make the best of the New Year.