Addressing the ceremony on this occasion, he pointed out that the economy was growing satisfactorily, and this fact was reflective in public sector development projects costing Rs 520 billion against Rs 80 billion which used to be spent in the past on this count. "If this amount is utilised prudently, I see no reason why Pakistan should not progress and move forward", the President said.
He pointed out that if there would be destabilisation in the country, it could be because of extremism and terrorism, which should not take place while destabilisation on the political scene can create difficulties and economic surge can take a downward turn which, he said, he would not allow to occur. He announced in unequivocal terms that he would not allow destabilisation in the country.
"Democracy will continue to move forward, and elections are to take place; but there should not be destabilisation, and I would not allow it", he declared.
General Musharraf reiterated that the forthcoming elections would be fair and transparent, but whoever would attempt to create destability he would have to come across him first.
Congratulating NHA and NLC engineers and technicians on the successful accomplishment of the mega project, the President said that construction of Northern Bypass would ease traffic pressure within Karachi city.
He pointed out that Karachi has a unique position for its being the gateway of Pakistan and a link of Pakistan with the rest of the world and, therefore, it is most essential that the city should have an effective communication network within to facilitate South to North traffic movement.
"Whatever is done for Karachi will not be too much, particularly peace and harmony here is essential for economic growth of Pakistan and South to North traffic management".