Islamabad, Aug 14 (IANS): Pakistani Army chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani has said the nation will overcome all the difficulties with national resilience, abundance of resources and a reservoir of highly talented youth.

Addressing the participants after a flag hoisting ceremony at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Saturday to mark the 64th anniversary of Independence Day, Kayani said challenges being faced by nation were far greater and complex than ever before, APP reported.

"We have to put Pakistan firmly on the path to prosperity," he said.

Kayani said that for past 64 years, the armed forces have performed their duty to defend Pakistan.

"... The rank and file of the Pakistan Army draw strength from the contributions of Pakistan Air Force, Navy, civilian law enforcement agencies and especially the people of Pakistan.

"We could not have achieved this success without the resolve, commitment and perseverance displayed by the people of Pakistan", he added.

Kayani said: "We must stay committed to the ideals of Pakistan and remain ever ready to protect our motherland. I have no doubt that the challenges we face today, will only strengthen our resolve."