ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is celebrating its Independence Day with patriotic zeal and renewed commitment to national unity, peace and prosperity.
The day began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes at provincial headquarters, while special prayers were offered for the country’s peace, stability and progress.
A major Independence Day programme is being held at Yaadgar-e-Fatah in Islamabad, which was inaugurated on Thursday night by President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. The ceremony paid tribute to the country’s martyrs and featured the national anthem by a military band.
Across the country, streets, markets, government buildings and public spaces have been decorated with national flags and green-themed decorations. Citizens are purchasing flags, badges and other Independence Day items, adding to the festive atmosphere in major cities.
Across Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar, Quetta, Multan and other cities, markets and public spaces have been illuminated and decorated with flags, buntings and lights. Citizens have taken to the streets, with rallies, fireworks and other festivities adding to the Independence Day atmosphere.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) has also released a national song, Mera Pyara Watan Pakistan, highlighting national unity and love for the homeland.
Read also: Yadgar-i-Fatah Monument inaugurated in Islamabad
