ISLAMABAD: Pakistan observed its national day on Monday with patriotic fervor, but the celebrations were subdued and marked by austerity, reflecting recent government-imposed restrictions amid the ongoing Gulf oil crisis. The festivities included traditional gun salutes in the capital and across provinces, along with flag-raising ceremonies nationwide to honor the significance of the day.
Pakistan Day, observed annually on March 23, commemorates the Lahore Resolution of 1940, in which the All-India Muslim League called for a separate homeland for Muslims within British India. The recent economic austerity measures were announced in response to the global oil shortage triggered by the US-Israel conflict with Iran, which has impacted several countries, including Pakistan.
The day commenced with a formal change of guards at Allama Iqbal’s mausoleum in Lahore, where the Pakistan Air Force assumed ceremonial duties.
In a televised message, President Asif Zardari emphasized that Pakistan Day underscores the importance of unity and collective effort in transforming national aspirations into reality. He paid homage to the founding leaders and highlighted the country’s accomplishments, such as building robust institutions, acquiring nuclear capabilities, and fighting terrorism.
The President also reflected on recent military successes, mentioning operations like Marka-e-Haq, Bunyan-um-Marsoos, and Ghazab-lil-Haq, which he said had effectively countered threats and aggression. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s firm stance against groups like Fitna al-Khawarij, vowing to eliminate terrorism and defend national sovereignty at all costs.
Addressing regional issues, Zardari pointed to the unresolved Kashmir dispute, calling it an unfinished chapter of partition, and urged the international community to support the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination. He also appealed for global efforts to end Palestinian suffering and stressed the importance of diplomacy in resolving Middle Eastern tensions.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed similar sentiments, highlighting Pakistan’s economic recovery despite the challenges posed by regional crises. He described March 23 as a historic milestone that united the Muslim community and led to the creation of Pakistan under the leadership of Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
The Prime Minister praised Pakistan’s armed forces for their professionalism and sacrifices, emphasizing that recent military operations demonstrate the country’s resilient defense and unwavering resolve. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and stability, linking lasting peace in South Asia to a fair resolution of the Kashmir issue.
He also expressed solidarity with the Palestinian people and called for diplomatic efforts to ease Middle Eastern tensions.
Military Leadership’s Message
Meanwhile, top military officials, including Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Asim Munir, Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir, Navy Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf, and Air Force Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, extended greetings to the nation. In their messages, they described March 23 as a pivotal day that defined Pakistan’s destiny and laid the foundation for its sovereignty.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated that Pakistan’s armed forces remain committed to safeguarding national sovereignty, combating terrorism, and upholding internal security. They reaffirmed their resolve to defend the country’s frontiers with unwavering dedication and highlighted Pakistan’s role as a responsible member of the international community promoting peace.
The military leaders emphasized unity and resilience in the face of ongoing threats, reaffirming their pledge to protect Pakistan’s sovereignty and ensure internal stability against extremism and terrorism.
