Pakistan celebrates Independence Day with unity, peace calls

Pakistan celebrated its 79th Independence Day on Friday with patriotic fervor, as the nation held rallies, flag-hoisting ceremonies, and special prayers across the country. The day commenced with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital Islamabad and 21-gun salutes at provincial headquarters, according to state-run Radio Pakistan. Mosques offered prayers for the country's peace, prosperity, and solidarity, while public buildings, streets, and markets were adorned with national flags, buntings, and illuminations. Cultural events and a change-of-guard ceremony at the mausoleum of founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi added to the commemorative spirit.

Leaders Call for Unity and Progress

In his Independence Day message, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to Jinnah, national poet Allama Muhammad Iqbal, and the leaders and workers of the Pakistan Movement, acknowledging the immense sacrifices that secured the nation's freedom. "On 14 August 1947, we were blessed with a homeland where we could live as a free nation with dignity and honour and shape our lives in accordance with our religious and cultural values," Sharif stated. He highlighted Pakistan's progress despite major challenges, citing economic stability, rising remittances, technological advancement, and investments in education, agriculture, and industry. The prime minister also praised the armed forces and reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to defending its sovereignty, including water resources.

Defense Partnerships and Regional Stability

Sharif emphasized Pakistan's dedication to peace and regional stability, specifically noting the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement with Türkiye and Saudi Arabia as a significant milestone in defense cooperation. President Asif Zardari, in a separate address, urged Pakistanis to view independence as an ongoing responsibility, calling for stronger institutions, governance reforms, economic growth, and expanded opportunities for the youth. Both leaders stressed the importance of national unity and renewed efforts to build a peaceful, prosperous, and stable Pakistan. The country, along with neighboring India, gained independence following the end of British colonial rule in the subcontinent in 1947.