‘Don’t abandon Pakistan, strive like Germans, Japanese to make it strong’

Islamabad:Renowned poet Iftikhar Arif has urged Pakistan’s youth to stay in the country instead of listening to pessimists and struggle to make Pakistan a great nation like people of Japan, Germany, South Korea and China.

He emphasized that had the people of Japan, Germany, South Korea, and China fled their countries after the devastation of wars, they could not have become the great economic powers of today. “Every great nation, including China, South Korea, Japan, and Germany, faced hardships and crises, yet their intellectuals never asked their youth to abandon their homeland. They promoted resilience and optimism, inspiring young people to bring change from within. Pakistan is blessed with natural resources and brilliant minds. If we work collectively, we can transform this country into a great nation,” he said, delivering a powerful call for hope and a renewed vision.

He was speaking at the launch ceremony of the Jahan-e-Masiha Adbi Forum (JMAF) thematic calendar for 2025 here at a local hotel the other night. The event brought together eminent poets, intellectuals, and healthcare professionals, who delivered messages of resilience, hope, and optimism for a brighter future of Pakistan. Celebrated poet Anwar Masood echoed similar sentiments, inspiring the audience with his blend of wisdom and humour. Sharing his lifelong belief in the resilience of Pakistan’s people, he said,

“I have always chosen optimism over despair. There is hope in every corner of this nation. Our youth must understand that success is achieved through persistence, patience, and hard work. Let us never allow despair to dominate our spirit, for Pakistan’s future lies in the strength and resolve of its people.”

Poet Inam-ul-Haq Javed further emphasised the importance of unity and determination. “The challenges we face are not insurmountable. We must stand together, guided by our dreams for a better Pakistan. If our youth channel their energy into constructive efforts, no obstacle can hinder our nation’s journey towards success,” he remarked, urging young people to believe in their abilities to create a prosperous future.

The thematic calendar launch, organised by PharmEvo’s Jahan-e-Masiha Adbi Forum, showcased the company’s commitment to blending culture and intellectual growth. For over two decades, the Forum has been promoting intellectual and cultural enrichment through its annual calendars, designed to inspire and educate audiences. Deputy CEO of PharmEvo, Syed Jamshed Ahmed, highlighted the significance of the initiative, saying, “Our calendars are more than just dates on a page—they are tools of inspiration, promoting values of leadership, perseverance, and dedication. These qualities are essential to overcoming challenges and achieving national development.”

Managing Director of PharmEvo, Haroon Qasim, reiterated the company’s vision of fostering an enlightened society. “At PharmEvo, we believe that health goes beyond medicine. Through platforms like the Jahan-e-Masiha Adbi Forum, we aim to promote intellectual growth and cultural revival.