In a message to the nation on Iqbal Day, the President paid rich tributes to the poet and said he has suggested the path of understanding Islam in its true perspective in the context of the realities of the modern world.
"His approach is pragmatic and based on a deep understanding of the teachings of the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him)," he stated.
Underlining the relevance and importance of Iqbal's teachings in the present age, he said "there is more than ever before, a need for us and the people of the West to learn from the teachings of Iqbal who advocates the foundation of the New World by combining intellect with love."
Iqbal, he said, perceives and promotes Islam's just view of social organisation, which is in step with modern times.
"He advises Muslims to courageously proceed with the work of reconstruction of thought for their socio-economic uplift, he challenges divisive forces and calls upon the Ummah to unite, from the banks of the Nile to the sands of Kashgar".
President Musharraf recalled that Iqbal was deeply troubled by the suppression of Muslims of South Asia and could foresee their continued subjugation with the end of colonial rule.
He envisioned a separate homeland for them and devoted his entire energy for their liberation and emancipation.
The President recalled that poet's efforts rekindled hope and awakening among the Muslims of South Asia and led to their rallying round the leadership of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah for the creation of our beloved homeland, Pakistan.
"May Allah give us the wisdom to serve our nation, Islam and humanity in light of the teachings of Allama Iqbal. Ameen."
PRIME MINISTER: Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz has asked the nation to follow the message of Allama Mohammad Iqbal in its true spirit and make Pakistan into a modern, progressive, democratic Islamic state.
The Prime Minister in a message on the 128th birth anniversary of Dr Allama Iqbal said he made significant contribution to change the destiny of the nation from a hapless minority in India to be the proud citizens of an independent country.
"Not only he advocated a separate homeland for the Muslims of the subcontinent, but he also with his poetry instilled a new spirit into them and made them conscious of their strength."
His poetry made the people realise they were a nation by every standard and, not merely a religious minority. This, he added, was the beginning of the philosophy of Pakistan.
"I strongly believe that whatever the circumstances, we shall always need Allama Iqbal's inspiring message for consolidating Pakistan. His verses are as relevant today as when they were written. Let us remember this particularly on his birthday, which should serve as a reminder of the debt that we owe him."
The Prime Minister said: "It is my privilege to greet the nation on this important day. I hope that every one of us will keep his message in mind forever and strive to shape this country into a true image of his dream - the dream of an independent, developed, modern and progressive democratic Islamic state for millions of the Muslims of the subcontinent."