ISLAMABAD
The nation celebrated Pakistan Day today with a renewed pledge to transform the country into a true Islamic and welfare state in line with the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
The day is celebrated to commemorate the historic Lahore Resolution passed on 23rd March, 1940, which set the agenda of a separate homeland for Muslims of the Sub-Continent. The day dawned with 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salute in provincial capitals.
Special prayers were offered in mosques after Fajr prayers for progress and prosperity of the country. Change of guards ceremonies were held at Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi and Allama Iqbal’s mausoleum in Lahore.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif hoisted the National Flag in Lahore to mark the celebrations of Pakistan Day.
Last week, the government announced that it would not hold the usual Pakistan Day parade and other ceremonial events on March 23, in light of the ongoing Gulf oil crisis and the resulting austerity measures unveiled by the government.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif have paid tribute to the national heroes and to the martyrs and ghazis who sacrificed for the creation and stability of Pakistan.
In their messages on Pakistan Day, they said undoubtedly, with the blessing of freedom, Pakistan stands as a testament to the wisdom, determination, perseverance, and sacrifices of our ancestors.
The President and Prime Minister said the entire nation stands resolute in upholding its proud traditions and remains ever ready to face any challenge.
The President in his message said that despite early challenges after independence, Pakistan made significant progress through determination and cooperation, including building strong institutions, enhancing defense capabilities, and combating terrorism.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s resolve against security threats, he stressed that no group will be allowed to use foreign soil to act against the country.
The Prime Minister in his message said the government, has steered Pakistan’s economy towards sustainable growth despite numerous challenges. He said sustainable peace in South Asia is linked to the just resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue and Pakistan will continue to extend moral, political, and diplomatic support to our brothers and sisters in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
