Pakistan celebrates 78th Independence Day with national zeal

Lahore: Pakistan is celebrating its 78th Independence Day today with full patriotic fervour and national spirit.

The day began with gun salutes in federal and provincial capitals, followed by special prayers at Fajr for the country’s peace, prosperity, and unity.

As the clock struck midnight, celebrations erupted across the country — streets, neighbourhoods, and markets lit up with green and white flags, fireworks, and Independence Day rallies, reflecting the joyous national mood.

The main national ceremony was held at Jinnah Sports Complex, Islamabad, where President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, heads of the armed forces, federal ministers, parliamentarians, foreign diplomats, and many citizens were in attendance.

The ceremony featured marches by well-prepared contingents of the Pakistan Army, Navy, Air Force, Rangers, and FC, accompanied by a military band performing patriotic tunes. The Prime Minister also unveiled the model of the “Yadgar-e-Ma’araka-e-Haq” (Memorial of the Battle for Truth).

Guard-changing ceremonies were held with traditional decorum at Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi and Mazar-e-Iqbal in Lahore, while 21-gun salutes marked the start of the day in Lahore and Quetta.

In his message to the nation, President Zardari congratulated Pakistanis worldwide and reminded them of the sacrifices, unity, and bravery that led to independence. He praised the unshakeable resolve and professionalism shown by the nation and the armed forces in response to recent external aggression.

According to ISPR, Field Marshal Asim Munir, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, and General Sahir Shamshad Mirza also extended greetings to the nation, honouring the sacrifices of the founders and reaffirming the armed forces’ commitment to national unity and sovereignty.