Former World Champion Qamar Zaman Calls For Unity, Sacrifice On Independence Day

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Aug, 2024) As Pakistan prepares to celebrate its 77th Independence Day, former World Squash Champion Qamar Zaman has urged citizens to come together and work collectively to take the country forward.

In an interview with APP, he expressed his deep love for Pakistan and emphasized the need for collective effort to ensure the country's safety, survival, and security.

Zaman, who reached the semifinals of the British Amateur Championship at the United Kingdom in 1973, said, "This country has given us so much, and now it's our turn to give back. We must celebrate Independence Day with a renewed resolve to make sacrifices for Pakistan's dignity and identity."

He recalled an incident in Great Britain where an Englishman waved the Pakistani flag after his title win, saying, "That moment was a testament to the pride and recognition that comes with representing Pakistan abroad."

Zaman credited Pakistan for his achievements, saying that representing the country at the global level has been a matter of pride.

"I am where I am today because of this country. Pakistan has given me so much, and I feel honored to have had the opportunity to represent it on the world stage," he said.

Zaman said it is the duty of everyone to protect and uphold the country's dignity and identity.

“Pakistan is abound with talent, boasting a plethora of skilled individuals across various fields, including sports, medicine, and engineering etc. All these talented individuals should channel their skills with dedication and passion towards the betterment of the country.

By doing so, they can harness their potential to make a meaningful impact and contribute to Pakistan's progress and prosperity,” he said.

Zaman, who in the 1975 British Open, stunned and beat the defending-champion Geoff Hunt of Australia in the quarterfinals, and went on to win the title, urged political leaders to work together, tapping into the abundant talent in Pakistan, and guiding the youth to contribute positively to the nation.

As Pakistan celebrates its Independence Day on August 14, Zaman's message echoes the sentiment of many, urging to put aside differences and work together for the country's prosperity and progress.

It may be mentioned that, Zaman has reached the British Open final on four occasions. He was runner-up to Hunt in 1978, 1979 and 1980, and to Jahangir Khan in 1984. He was also runner-up at the World Open four times, losing to Hunt in the finals of 1976, 1979 and 1980, and to Jahangir in 1984.

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