Pakistan (Commonwealth Union)_ Pakistan marks its 78th Independence Day today with a series of magnificent activities in the capital and around the country. The primary ceremony was held in Islamabad, and notable attendees included President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Army Chief of Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir. The day started with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad, followed by 21-gun salutes in each provincial capital. Additionally, mosques around the country offered special prayers for peace, harmony, and progress. This year’s theme, “Marka-e-Haq” (Battle for Righteousness), focused on national resilience, sacrifice, and togetherness.
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During the celebrations, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif made a momentous statement, introducing the newly constituted Army Rocket Force Command, which aims to boost Pakistan’s defense capabilities. He stated that the force is equipped with superior technology and can respond to attacks from any direction. Military officers from Turkey and Azerbaijan also attended the ceremony, underscoring regional connections. The day’s highlight was the defensive exhibition at Shakarparian Parade Ground. The display featured tanks, artillery, rocket systems, planes, and other equipment used in “Operation Bunyan-e-Marsos.” This showed Pakistan’s military strength. The Pakistan Air Force also performed a flyover, followed by parachute jumps and performances by military bands and cultural groups.
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Flag-hoisting ceremonies were held nationwide, with the national flag raised at key landmarks. Prime Minister Sharif presided over a large flag-raising ceremony at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad. Additionally, streets, buildings, and public places around the country were lit up and decorated with flags and patriotic banners. In his Independence Day address, President Zardari hailed the country and paid tribute to the founding fathers, notably Allama Iqbal and Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. He noted Pakistan’s growing ability to defend its sovereignty and maintain peace. He praised the armed forces and referred to Operation Bunyan-e-Marsos as a symbol of national trust in state institutions.
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Prime Minister Sharif, in his message, thanked Allah and paid homage to the freedom movement’s leaders and martyrs. He described Pakistan’s 78-year journey as one of perseverance, faith, and national growth. From the economy and defense to IT, he said the nation had overcome many challenges to move forward. The prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to defending its territory and called for resolving issues like Kashmir through peaceful means. Celebrations also spread far beyond Islamabad. The Sindh government hosted a musical concert in Karachi’s National Stadium, with well-known performers such as Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Sajjad Ali, Hadiqa Kiani, and Kaifi Khalil. The event began with the national hymn and ended with fireworks and a cake-cutting ceremony. Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, as well as other political and cultural leaders and foreign consuls, was also in attendance.
Lahore witnessed preparations at Minar-e-Pakistan and Huzuri Bagh, as well as public parks and leisure areas adorned for the occasion. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a special commemoration for minority populations was conducted in Mardan, while Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) organized student-led activities and a Shuhada Aizaz March in Mirpur to remember the martyrs. Flags, badges, and Independence Day items were sold in Pakistani markets. Celebrations broke out in the streets of big cities and small towns. Security in important areas was tightened to ensure peaceful events. The day was marked by national pride, reflection, and a renewed commitment to the country’s future.
