ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is celebrating its 79th Independence Day today with patriotic enthusiasm, traditional zeal and a renewed commitment to strengthening the country in line with the vision of the Pakistan Movement.
The celebrations highlight Pakistan’s cultural diversity, national identity and the journey the country has undertaken since gaining independence.
The day began with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salutes at provincial headquarters. Special prayers were also offered at mosques across the country for Pakistan’s peace, unity, prosperity and stability.
Flag-hoisting ceremonies are being held at federal, provincial, divisional and district headquarters, while government buildings, markets, streets and public spaces have been decorated with national flags, buntings and illuminated displays.
A variety of programmes, including seminars, exhibitions, cultural activities and special events, have been arranged nationwide to mark the occasion and pay tribute to the sacrifices made by the country’s founders and freedom fighters.
A change-of-guards ceremony is also being held at the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi as part of the Independence Day celebrations.
On the occasion, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu extended their greetings to the nation.
The armed forces leadership expressed heartfelt felicitations to the people of Pakistan and reaffirmed their commitment to the country’s sovereignty, security and progress.
