ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Independence Day and the Marka-e-Haq are being celebrated with full fervor, highlighted by a central ceremony at Islamabad’s Jinnah Sports Stadium, attended by President Asif Ali Zardari as the chief guest. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the chiefs of the three armed forces, and national and foreign dignitaries were also present at the event.
The celebrations featured a spectacular parade by the armed forces, showcasing military discipline, coordination, and strength. A flypast by fighter jets just concluded, drawing applause from attendees, while tanks, artillery, radars, and other military equipment used in recent operations were put on public display at Shakarparian Parade Ground. Adding to the celebrations, a musical concert was held featuring patriotic songs, creating an electrifying atmosphere for the audience.
During the event, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif unveiled the Marka-e-Haq Monument, commemorating Pakistan’s successes in the May conflict with India and honoring the bravery of its armed forces.
Earlier, the National Assembly passed a unanimous resolution paying tribute to the nation’s martyrs and reaffirming the resolve to defend Pakistan’s sovereignty and independence at all costs.
Independence Day celebrations were held across the country, with streets, neighborhoods, and cities decorated in the green and white of the national flag. In Punjab, rallies and events took place in Faisalabad, Multan, Gujranwala, Jhang, Narowal, and other cities. Sindh witnessed festivities in Sukkur, Hyderabad, Jacobabad, Thatta, and Badin, while rallies in Balochistan were organized in Naseerabad, Jaffarabad, Sibi, Bolan, Sohbatpur, Lehri, Gwadar, and other towns.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a special Independence Day event for the minority community was held at the Mardan Commissioner’s Office, while preparations in Karak reached their peak. In Azad Jammu and Kashmir, colorful celebrations took place at the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir in Muzaffarabad, accompanied by a ‘Martyrs’ Honour March’ in Mirpur.
This year’s Independence Day celebrations reflected both national pride and the country’s ongoing commitment to honoring its defenders, history, and cultural heritage, with a combination of military spectacle, patriotic music, and public participation.
