ISLAMABAD, Aug 14 (Alliance News): Pakistan celebrated its 79th Independence Day on Friday with great enthusiasm and patriotic spirit as millions of citizens participated in flag-hoisting ceremonies, special prayers, cultural events and national celebrations across the country, reaffirming their commitment to unity, peace and national progress.
The day commenced with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salutes in all provincial capitals, while special prayers were offered in mosques for the country’s peace, prosperity, security and stability.
Major cities, including Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar and Quetta, were illuminated in green and white as government buildings, public spaces, roads and markets were decorated with national flags, colourful lights and banners to mark the occasion.
Schools, colleges, universities and public institutions organised special ceremonies, national song competitions, cultural performances and flag-hoisting events to celebrate the country’s independence and honour the sacrifices of the leaders and workers of the Pakistan Movement.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif paid rich tributes to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the architects of Pakistan and all those who sacrificed their lives, homes and livelihoods for the creation of an independent homeland.
In separate Independence Day messages, the country’s leadership urged the nation to remain united and work collectively for economic progress, national development and regional peace.
A dignified change-of-guard ceremony was held at Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi, where contingents of the Pakistan Armed Forces presented ceremonial honours to the Father of the Nation. Senior civil and military officials laid floral wreaths and offered Fateha.
Large numbers of citizens, including families, children and youth, visited national monuments, parks and historical sites carrying Pakistani flags and wearing green-and-white attire to celebrate the national occasion.
Fireworks illuminated the skies in Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore and several other cities at midnight, while people chanted patriotic slogans and sang national songs to mark the beginning of Independence Day celebrations.
Public gatherings, rallies and community events were organised across the country, reflecting the people’s love for their homeland and their resolve to contribute towards Pakistan’s progress and prosperity.
Citizens also expressed solidarity with the armed forces and law-enforcement agencies, acknowledging their sacrifices for safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and ensuring national security.
The celebrations highlighted Pakistan’s journey over the past 79 years and renewed the nation’s commitment to strengthening democracy, promoting economic development, protecting national unity and building a peaceful and prosperous future for coming generations.