The 77th Independence Day is being marked with zeal and fervor across the country.
The day began with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and a 21-gun salute at provincial headquarters. Mosques held special prayers for peace, solidarity, and the country's prosperity.
The primary event of the celebrations was a national flag-hoisting ceremony in Islamabad, which Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif attended. Similar ceremonies will take place in the provincial, divisional, and district offices.
Change of guard ceremonies were held at the mausoleums of Allama Iqbal in Lahore and Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi.
In major cities, officials have planned a variety of festivities to commemorate Independence Day in the best possible way.
President Asif Ali Zardari congratulated the country on its 77th Independence Day, emphasizing unity, integrity, and economic stability, urging adherence to Quaid-e-Azam's principles, advocating for investment in youth and women, and reaffirming support for Kashmiris and Palestinians.
In his message on Independence Day, the president stated that the creation of Pakistan through peaceful and democratic means was a unique chapter in history, paying tribute to the leaders, workers of the Pakistan movement, and forefathers who made numerous sacrifices for the country.
The president advocated drawing inspiration from Quaid-e-Azam's leadership, highlighting the significance of prioritizing the well-being of the people, particularly the masses and the poor, in order to secure Pakistan's success. He emphasized the need for investing in youth and women, improving service delivery, and creating a business-friendly atmosphere in order to develop a better nation.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who pledged to work together for an inclusive and successful Pakistan, stated that the government's efforts to promote economic growth and stability were beginning to bear fruit.
“In a short span, our efforts have started yielding positive results. The economy is on its way to stability. The high inflation of 38% has come down to 11.1% (July) and shall be brought down to a single digit soon, Inshallah,” PM Shehbaz said.
The prime minister extended heartfelt congratulations to the countrymen and paid tribute to the immense sacrifices of forefathers and countless unsung heroes of the Pakistan Movement, which resulted in the creation of Pakistan as an independent and sovereign state on August 14, 1947.