ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is observing its 86th Pakistan Day on Monday with traditional enthusiasm nationwide, though celebrations are being marked with simplicity.
This year’s observances exclude parades and large public events, with only flag-hoisting ceremonies being held.
The day began with a 21-gun salute in Lahore and Peshawar, where soldiers raised slogans of ‘Allahu Akbar,’ ‘Pakistan Zindabad’, and ‘Pak Army Zindabad.’
On the occasion, Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari said Pakistan Day underscores the importance of unity in strengthening the nation.
The president said the country has made its defence capability invincible, acquired nuclear capability, and fought a long and successful unconventional war against terrorism.
In his message, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, expressed concern over recent tensions in the Middle East and said Pakistan, as a responsible state, is pursuing balanced and active diplomacy.
He added that despite challenges, the country’s economy is on a path of sustainable development, with positive indicators reflecting the right direction.
PM said the armed forces had given a befitting response to the enemy in Operation Bunyan Al-Marsoos and paid tribute to soldiers and law enforcement personnel.
He also reiterated Pakistan’s moral, political and diplomatic support for the people of occupied Kashmir.
Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said, March 23, 1947, reflects national resolve marked by faith, hope and perseverance, adding that Pakistan is progressing on a path of development under democracy.
The statement said the fight against terrorism and extremism is ongoing, and that the armed forces, law enforcement agencies and the public remain united.
Separately, a Change of Guards ceremony was held at Mazar-e-Iqbal in Lahore, where a Pakistan Air Force contingent assumed guard duty.
Air Vice Marshal Muhammad Shahid Afzal attended the ceremony as the chief guest and recorded his impressions in the guest book.
Also, the armed forces leadership, including Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Air Chief Zaheer Babar, congratulated the nation.
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