Islamabad:Pakistan is celebrating its 78th Independence Day today with immense enthusiasm and national fervor. The day began with special prayers for the country’s progress and unity during the Fajr prayers. Gun salutes were fired in federal and provincial capitals, with 31 guns in Islamabad and 21 guns in other provincial capitals.
**Nationwide Celebrations and Events**
On the occasion of Independence Day, significant ceremonies were held at the mausoleums of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Iqbal, featuring changing of guards. Across the country, cities such as Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar, Quetta, and Multan were adorned with lights and fireworks, while national flags and patriotic songs filled the air.
At the Pakistan Military Academy Kakul, an Independence Day parade was held with cadets performing a march past. At the stroke of midnight, Lahore’s Greater Iqbal Park showcased a spectacular fireworks display accompanied by a laser light show, attracting thousands of spectators. In Karachi, a large crowd gathered at Port Grand to witness a similar fireworks display, while the Governor’s House also hosted its own celebration.
In Islamabad’s F-9 Park, a grand fireworks display was organized, featuring the presence of Paris Olympics gold medalist Arshad Nadeem. In Rawalpindi’s Raja Bazaar, a one-kilometer long national flag was unfurled, and in Quetta’s Nawab Akbar Bugti Stadium, another impressive fireworks display took place. The Governor’s House in Peshawar also celebrated with a fireworks show.
**Messages from the Leaders**
President Asif Ali Zardari, in his special message on the 78th Independence Day, emphasized the need to overcome current challenges by setting aside differences and working with determination for national unity, integrity, and economic stability. He paid tribute to the sacrifices made by the leaders of the independence movement and highlighted the importance of utilizing national resources for public welfare.
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif also extended his heartfelt congratulations to the nation, acknowledging the sacrifices of the founding fathers and emphasizing the importance of addressing economic challenges and continuing the country’s development. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the rights of the Kashmiri and Palestinian people and highlighted the government’s focus on economic growth and stability.
The day was marked by a united display of national pride and a commitment to a prosperous future for Pakistan.
