Pakistan celebrated 77th Independence Day with a deep sense of tradition and national pride, reflecting the enduring spirit of the Pakistan Movement. The day commenced with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and a 21-gun salute in provincial capitals. Special prayers for the nation’s peace, solidarity, and prosperity were offered in mosques nationwide.
The centerpiece of the celebrations was the national flag-hoisting ceremony in Islamabad, attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Similar ceremonies were held across provincial, divisional, and district headquarters. At 7:58 AM, the nation observed a moment of unity, signaled by sirens, 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.
Major cities across Pakistan have organized a variety of programs to commemorate Independence Day in a befitting manner. The day is marked as a national holiday, with both public and private sectors hosting special events, including seminars, discussions, photographic exhibitions, artistic displays, national song renditions, and debate competitions, reflecting on the nation’s achievements over the past 77 years.
The celebrations also focus on honoring the sacrifices of the Pakistan Movement’s leaders, national heroes, and ordinary citizens who fought for sovereignty and self-determination against all odds. Streets and avenues in Islamabad and other cities have transformed into vibrant displays of color, particularly green, with flags, banners, and buntings adorning homes, cars, and public spaces, creating a festive atmosphere.
Illuminations light up prominent public and private buildings, while police across the country have implemented traffic management plans to ensure public safety as people gather in parks, malls, markets, and beaches to celebrate.
Children, considered the nation’s future, are particularly excited on this day. Jashan-i-Azadi stalls are bustling with activity, offering dresses, flags, buntings, pin badges, toys, and other decorative items to attract young and old alike. Various brands, online retailers, eateries, cab services, and electronics companies are offering Independence Day discounts, adding to the festive spirit.
President Zardari Calls for Unity and Economic Stability
President Asif Ali Zardari congratulated the nation on the 77th Independence Day, emphasizing the importance of unity, integrity, and economic stability. He urged citizens to follow the teachings of Quaid-e-Azam, invest in youth and women, and reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Kashmiris and Palestinians.
In his message, President Asif Ali Zardari highlighted Pakistan’s creation as a unique chapter in history, achieved through peaceful and democratic means. He paid homage to the leaders and workers of the Pakistan Movement and the forefathers who made countless sacrifices for the nation. The president called for setting aside differences and working towards national unity and economic stability to overcome current challenges.
Asif Ali Zardari also emphasized the need to utilize Pakistan’s abundant human and natural resources for the welfare of the people, uphold the rule of law, strengthen democratic institutions, and focus on public interest. He stressed the importance of following Quaid-e-Azam’s leadership, investing in youth and women, improving service delivery, and fostering a business-friendly environment to build a stronger nation.
The president also urged the nation to remember the struggles of the people in Indian-Occupied Kashmir and Palestine, reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering support for their legitimate rights. He concluded with a call for collective commitment to uplift the nation and a prayer for divine guidance.
PM Shehbaz Sharif Vows to Build a Prosperous Pakistan
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his Independence Day message, vowed to work collectively for an inclusive and prosperous Pakistan. He highlighted that the government’s efforts for economic growth and stability had started yielding positive results, with inflation rates showing signs of improvement.
The prime minister Shehbaz Sharif extended his heartfelt felicitations to the nation and paid tribute to the sacrifices of the forefathers and heroes of the Pakistan Movement, which led to the creation of Pakistan on August 14, 1947. He expressed confidence that the nation would continue to make collaborative efforts for the benefit and welfare of its citizens.
Shehbaz Sharif also acknowledged the significant contributions of overseas Pakistanis and the Pakistan Armed Forces in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty. He reiterated Pakistan’s support for the people of Indian-Occupied Kashmir and Palestine in their struggles for self-determination.
The prime minister emphasized the importance of economic growth, job creation, industrialization, and investment in education and skill development. He assured the nation that the government was focused on digitizing the economy, broadening the tax base, and reducing electricity prices to alleviate economic challenges.
US and Russian Officials Extend Independence Day Greetings
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Russian Ambassador to Pakistan Albert P. Khorev extended their heartfelt wishes to the people of Pakistan on the occasion of Independence Day. Antony Blinken emphasized the long-standing ties between the US and Pakistan, while Albert P. Khorev highlighted Pakistan’s potential and the warmth of its people. Both officials wished the nation prosperity and happiness as it celebrates this significant day.
