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Islamabad: Pakistan is celebrating its 78th Independence Day today with immense national fervor and patriotic zeal. The day began with special prayers for the country’s progress, unity, peace, and prosperity in mosques nationwide, followed by gun salutes in major cities.
The celebrations painted the country in vibrant green and white as cities, streets, and neighborhoods were adorned with the national flag. Festivities, including fireworks and public rallies, were held in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar, Quetta, and Multan, with citizens of all ages taking to the streets to commemorate the occasion.
The main event of the day was a grand ceremony held at the Jinnah Sports Complex in Islamabad. The event, commemorating both Independence Day and the “Victory of the Righteous Battle,” was attended by President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and the chiefs of the armed forces. Federal ministers, members of the National Assembly and Senate, and ambassadors from friendly countries also participated. The ceremony featured an impressive march past by military bands and elite contingents from the Pakistan Army, Navy, Air Force, Punjab Rangers, and FC Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. During the event, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif unveiled a model of the “Monument of the Righteous Battle.”
In Lahore and Quetta, the day began with 21-gun salutes, followed by special prayers for national security in mosques. The tradition of change of guards ceremonies was also observed at the mausoleums of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi and Allama Muhammad Iqbal in Lahore.
President and Military Chiefs Deliver Messages of Unity
In his message, President Asif Ali Zardari extended his congratulations to all Pakistanis, highlighting the day as a reminder of the nation’s courage, unity, and sacrifices. He referenced the nation’s recent demonstration of strength and resolve in the face of external aggression, stating that the victory in the “Righteous Battle” was a testament to the nation’s unwavering resolve and exceptional professionalism. The president emphasized that the world now sees Pakistan as a peace-loving nation that does not bow to pressure.
The chiefs of Pakistan’s armed forces—Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu—also extended their heartfelt congratulations to the nation. A statement from ISPR called the day a symbol of national unity, steadfastness, and a commitment to a prosperous future. The statement paid tribute to the leaders, visionaries, and soldiers who laid the foundation of the homeland.
