The 77th Independence Day is being observed with a renewed commitment to the ideals of the Pakistan Movement, aiming to transform the country into a true Islamic welfare state.
The day began with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and a 21-gun salute in provincial headquarters. Special prayers were offered in mosques for the nation’s peace, unity, and prosperity.
The main event was a national flag-hoisting ceremony in Islamabad, attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Similar ceremonies were held in provincial, divisional, and district headquarters across the country.
At 7:58 am, sirens echoed throughout the country, leading up to the grand flag-hoisting at 8 am. Change of guard ceremonies took place at the mausoleums of Allama Iqbal in Lahore and Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi.
Authorities in major cities organized various programs to celebrate the occasion in a fitting manner. As the nation observes the day with a public holiday, both public and private sectors are hosting a range of special events, including seminars, exhibitions, artistic displays, national song performances, and debates reflecting on the historic achievement of independence 77 years ago.
The day focuses on honoring the efforts of Pakistan Movement leaders and the sacrifices made by national heroes and the common people in their struggle for sovereignty and self-determination, often against formidable odds.
Streets and avenues in the federal capital and other cities are adorned with flags, banners, and decorations, creating a festive atmosphere. Prominent buildings are illuminated to mark the occasion, while police have finalized traffic management plans to ensure public safety as people gather in parks, malls, markets, and beaches to celebrate.
Children, the nation’s future, are especially enthusiastic, as cities are filled with stalls selling Jashan-i-Azadi items like flags, buntings, badges, and other accessories. Various brands, online retailers, eateries, and service providers are offering special discounts, adding to the festivities.
President Zardari Calls for Unity
President Asif Ali Zardari, in his Independence Day message, emphasized unity, integrity, and economic stability. He urged the nation to follow Quaid-e-Azam’s teachings, invest in youth and women, and reaffirmed support for the struggles of Kashmiris and Palestinians.
Zardari highlighted Pakistan’s unique creation through peaceful and democratic means and paid tribute to the leaders and workers of the Pakistan Movement. He called for setting aside differences to work for the country’s unity, integrity, and economic stability in the face of current challenges.
He stressed the importance of utilizing Pakistan’s abundant human and natural resources for the people’s welfare, upholding the rule of law, and strengthening democratic institutions to meet the nation’s expectations. The president urged a collective commitment to uplift the country and prayed for Allah’s guidance.
PM Shehbaz Sharif Vows to Build a Prosperous Pakistan
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his Independence Day address, vowed to work for an inclusive and prosperous Pakistan. He noted that the government’s efforts for economic growth and stability were starting to yield positive results, with inflation significantly reduced.
He paid homage to the sacrifices of the Pakistan Movement’s leaders and ancestors, and acknowledged the resilience of the Pakistani people in overcoming challenges. He expressed confidence in the nation’s ability to work together for the benefit of all citizens.
The prime minister also recognized the contributions of overseas Pakistanis and expressed gratitude to the armed forces for safeguarding the country’s borders. He reiterated Pakistan’s support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir and Palestine in their struggles for self-determination.
Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the government’s focus on economic growth, job creation, and industrialization. He highlighted the importance of education and skill development, and the government’s efforts to digitize the economy, broaden the tax base, and reduce electricity prices.
International Congratulations
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Russian Ambassador to Pakistan Albert P Khorev extended their congratulations to the people of Pakistan on Independence Day. Blinken emphasized the strong ties between the US and Pakistan, while Khorev praised Pakistan’s potential and the sincerity of its people. Both expressed their best wishes for the country’s future.
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