pPakistans civilian and military leadership has stressed the need for unity and reforms as the nation celebrates 79 years of independence today./p pAccording to state-run emRadio Pakistan/em, the day dawned with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and a 21-gun salute at the provincial headquarters. A change of guards ceremony was also held at the mausoleum of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi./p pFlag hoisting ceremonies were also held at the Supreme Court and the Federal Constitutional Court in Islamabad./p h2a id"pakistans-security-linked-to-peace-in-our-neighbourhood" href"pakistans-security-linked-to-peace-in-our-neighbourhood" class"heading-permalink" aria-hidden"true" title"Permalink"/aPakistans security linked to peace in our neighbourhood/h2 pIn his message, President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to Quaid-i-Azam, those behind the Pakistan Movement and those who sacrificed their homes, security and livelihoods in the struggle for a homeland./p pBut independence is not only a historic achievement. It is also a responsibility that each generation must carry forward. The Pakistan that was created through the democratic will of its people must continue to grow stronger, more secure and more prosperous. Our task is not only to remember what earlier generations achieved, but to add to it through our own work, he said./p pThe president said that the past year had reminded citizens of the strength of the Pakistani nation./p blockquote class"twitter-tweet" lang"en" a href"https://twitter.com/PresOfPakistan/status/2087977516564885762"/a /blockquote pRecalling last years brief military conflict with India, he said, The events surrounding Marka-i-Haq demonstrated that Pakistan seeks peace, but also possesses the resolve and capacity to defend its sovereignty and national interests. The lesson of strength is ultimately a lesson of responsibility. A country that can defend itself must also use its strength to prevent conflict, protect peace and serve the interests of its people./p pHe said that the security and stability enjoyed today had come at a great cost, paying tribute to the martyrs of the armed forces, law enforcement agencies and police./p pTheir courage and commitment have helped safeguard our nation against external aggression and the threat of terrorism. The people of Pakistan remain deeply grateful for their service, he said./p pHe also highlighted Pakistans efforts to facilitate dialogue in the region./p pPakistan has effectively used its channels of communication, its geographical location and diplomatic capital to encourage dialogue and de-escalation at a time when wider conflict could have serious consequences for the region and the world, he said./p pHe reiterated that all disputes must be ultimately addressed through dialogue and diplomacy./p pOur security is linked to the peace and stability of our neighbourhood and the world at large. Pakistan will continue to support efforts that reduce tensions, protect regional stability and create conditions for cooperation, he said./p pThe president also went on to say that the country must focus on the work that will determine Pakistans future./p pWe must strengthen our economy, create greater opportunities for our young people, improve education and skills, strengthen institutions through a series of governance, economic and social reforms to ensure that the benefits of development and democracy reach every part and community of the country, he said./p pPakistans greatest strength is its young people. Across the country and around the world, they are demonstrating their talent in science, technology, business, education and the creative industries. Our responsibility is to give them the education, skills and opportunities they need to realise their potential. By investing in our youth today, we are investing in Pakistans future, he added./p pFor ordinary Pakistanis, national progress is measured in practical terms. It means a young person finding the skills and opportunity to build a career. It means a family being able to access quality education and healthcare. It means farmers, workers, traders and businesses being able to plan for the future with greater confidence. The strength of Pakistan will ultimately be judged by whether our national progress improves the lives of its people, President Zardari said./p pHe also voiced Pakistans support for the people of occupied Kashmir, saying Pakistan will continue to support a peaceful resolution of the dispute in accordance with the aspirations of its people and the relevant United Nations resolutions./p pOn Afghanistan, the president said that Pakistan had always respected and supported the national sovereignty of our neighbour Afghanistan and expected the same reciprocity./p pIt is sad that the current interim regime of Afghanistan is allowing and supporting a cocktail of terror groups to use their soil for launching attacks against neighbouring countries including Pakistan. It is sad the Taliban regime of Afghanistan is collaborating with India in launching terror attacks against Pakistani civilians and security personnel. They are doing this to distract us from the peace building efforts of Pakistan, recognised by the entire world, he said./p pI warn them to stop these evil actions against the people of Pakistan and assure all and sundry that the armed forces of Pakistan are capable of defeating these evil designs, he said./p pHe ended his message by calling on the nation to contribute to the countrys progress in whatever field they serve./p h2a id"pakistan-committed-to-defending-its-national-interests" href"pakistan-committed-to-defending-its-national-interests" class"heading-permalink" aria-hidden"true" title"Permalink"/aPakistan committed to defending its national interests/h2 pPrime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also began his message by paying tribute to the founding leaders of Pakistan, saying the nation owed the fulfilment of its dream of an independent homeland to their vision, statesmanship and sacrifices./p pHighlighting the governments economic achievements over the past two-and-a-half years, PM Shehbaz said the country had successfully navigated challenging circumstances to achieve economic stability and was now moving towards becoming a developed economy./p blockquote class"twitter-tweet" lang"en" a href"https://twitter.com/CMShehbaz/status/2088092027728625673"/a /blockquote pHe noted that remittances from overseas Pakistanis had increased by 11.3 billion over the past two years, which he termed a reflection of their confidence in government policies./p pThe prime minister said harnessing modern information technology, promoting innovation-driven industrial and agricultural development, creating employment opportunities and establishing a world-class education and skills system remained among the governments top priorities./p pPaying tribute to the armed forces, the prime minister said the military, under the leadership of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, had demonstrated exemplary unity and courage during Marka-i-Haq, adding another chapter to the countrys history of defence./p pHe said Pakistan remained committed to defending its national interests, including its right to water resources, and reiterated that the country would continue to play its role as a responsible nation and a stabilising force for regional and global peace./p pHe cited the a href"https://www.dawn.com/news/2021269"Makkah Joint Defence Agreement/a between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye as testimony to the countrys growing strategic role in the region./p pThe prime minister also expressed solidarity with the people of occupied Kashmir and the Palestinian people. He said lasting peace in South Asia was contingent upon a diplomatic resolution of the Kashmir dispute in line with United Nations resolutions, international law and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people./p pThe prime minister also paid tribute to the martyrs of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies who sacrificed their lives for the country, and called upon all segments of society, particularly political parties, to work together for national unity, integrity and the advancement of national interests./p pHe concluded his message by praying for Pakistans continued progress and dignity in the comity of nations./p h2a id"pakistans-strength-lies-in-the-unity-of-its-people" href"pakistans-strength-lies-in-the-unity-of-its-people" class"heading-permalink" aria-hidden"true" title"Permalink"/aPakistans strength lies in the unity of its people/h2 pCDF Munir, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu also issued a message to mark Independence Day./p pAccording to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the armed forces paid tribute to the Quaid and those whose sacrifices resulted in a sovereign Pakistan./p pTheir vision, courage and resolve remain a guiding force for the nation and continue to inspire us to uphold the principles and ideals of Pakistan, the statement said./p pThe armed forces of Pakistan respectfully acknowledge the supreme sacrifices of our martyrs, the services of our veterans, the dedication of law enforcement personnel and the contributions of every Pakistani who has served the nation. Their courage and selfless service have bolstered Pakistans resilience and safeguarded its independence, security and national interests, it added./p pAs guardians of Pakistans sovereignty and territorial integrity, the armed forces reaffirm their unwavering resolve to defend the motherland against all threats, uphold the Constitution and discharge the sacred trust reposed in them by the people of Pakistan. United with the nation, the armed forces will remain steadfast in preserving peace and stability while creating an environment conducive to national progress and prosperity, the statement said./p pPakistans strength lies in the unity and collective resolve of its people. On this Independence Day, let us renew our commitment to the enduring principles of faith, unity and discipline, strengthen national cohesion, promote tolerance and work together towards a secure, stable and prosperous Pakistan, it concluded./p h2a id"dar-reaffirms-determination-to-safeguard-countrys-sovereignty" href"dar-reaffirms-determination-to-safeguard-countrys-sovereignty" class"heading-permalink" aria-hidden"true" title"Permalink"/aDar reaffirms determination to safeguard countrys sovereignty/h2 pIn his message on the occasion, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar recalled Marka-i-Haq and reaffirmed Pakistans determination to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity./p pWe commemorated the first anniversary of Marka-i-Haq, recalling Pakistans resolute and successful response to Indian aggression in 2025, he said in a televised address to the nation./p pThe occasion reaffirmed our determination to safeguard Pakistans sovereignty, security and territorial integrity while remaining firmly committed to international law, responsible state craft and the pursuit of regional peace./p blockquote class"twitter-tweet" lang"en" a href"https://twitter.com/ForeignOfficePk/status/2087980175694979335"/a /blockquote pAt the outset of his address, the deputy PM extended greetings to Pakistanis and expatriates on the Independence Day, saying we commemorate the day to pay tribute to Quaid-i-Azam whose visionary leadership, unwavering resolve and steadfast commitment transformed the aspirations for a separate homeland into reality./p pHe also paid honour to the leaders and workers of the Pakistan movement whose courage, dedication and countless sacrifices laid the foundations of our independent state./p pDar said that since independence, the country had made remarkable strides across diverse fields guided by the enduring principles of unity, faith and discipline./p pToday we are a resilient nation of more than 250 million people bound together by our shared history, collective heritage and common aspirations, he added./p pHe also noted that the countrys achievements in education, science and technology, economic development, sports, culture and other fields reflect the talent, determination and immense potential of our people./p pThe deputy PM also mentioned Pakistans strengthened position on the international stage over the past eight decades./p pOur expanding diplomatic engagement, growing economic connectivity and partnerships, and deepening defence and security cooperation reflect Pakistans confidence and its commitment to contributing to a peaceful, stable and prosperous region and world./p pHe also mentioned the defence accord signed by Pakistan, Turkiye and Saudi Arabia last week, saying the historic agreement reflects our shared resolve to deepen strategic cooperation, strengthen collective security and addresses evolving regional and international peace and security challenges./p pHe also paid special tribute to armed forces, police and paramilitary forces of the country, saying their courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment remain a bulwark of our national security./p pDar noted the country always stood for peace, dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect among nations./p pHe referred to last years conflict with India and said the events underscored the urgent need of peaceful resolution of longstanding disputes, particularly the Jammu and Kashmir dispute which remains a source of instability in our region./p pPakistan will continue to extend its principles, moral, political and diplomatic support to the Kashmiri people in their just struggle for the realisation of their right to self-determination in accordance with the relevant UNSC resolutions, he added./p pOn the occasion, he urged people to draw renewed inspirations from the ideals and vision that led to the creation of Pakistan./p pLet us reaffirm our collective resolve to strengthen our institutions, uphold our national unity, harness the potential of our people and build a stronger more prosperous and peaceful Pakistan for generations to come, he concluded./p
pPakistans civilian and military leadership has stressed the need for unity and reforms as the nation celebrates 79 years of independence today./p pAccording to state-run emRadio Pakistan/em, the day dawned with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and a 21-gun salute at the provincial headquarters. A change of guards ceremony was also held at the mausoleum of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi./p pFlag hoisting ceremonies were also held at the Supreme Court and the Federal Constitutional Court in Islamabad./p h2a id"pakistans-security-linked-to-peace-in-our-neighbourhood" href"pakistans-security-linked-to-peace-in-our-neighbourhood" class"heading-permalink" aria-hidden"true" title"Permalink"/aPakistans security linked to peace in our neighbourhood/h2 pIn his message, President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to Quaid-i-Azam, those behind the Pakistan Movement and those who sacrificed their homes, security and livelihoods in the struggle for a homeland./p pBut independence is not only a historic achievement. It is also a responsibility that each generation must carry forward. The Pakistan that was created through the democratic will of its people must continue to grow stronger, more secure and more prosperous. Our task is not only to remember what earlier generations achieved, but to add to it through our own work, he said./p pThe president said that the past year had reminded citizens of the strength of the Pakistani nation./p blockquote class"twitter-tweet" lang"en" a href"https://twitter.com/PresOfPakistan/status/2087977516564885762"/a /blockquote pRecalling last years brief military conflict with India, he said, The events surrounding Marka-i-Haq demonstrated that Pakistan seeks peace, but also possesses the resolve and capacity to defend its sovereignty and national interests. The lesson of strength is ultimately a lesson of responsibility. A country that can defend itself must also use its strength to prevent conflict, protect peace and serve the interests of its people./p pHe said that the security and stability enjoyed today had come at a great cost, paying tribute to the martyrs of the armed forces, law enforcement agencies and police./p pTheir courage and commitment have helped safeguard our nation against external aggression and the threat of terrorism. The people of Pakistan remain deeply grateful for their service, he said./p pHe also highlighted Pakistans efforts to facilitate dialogue in the region./p pPakistan has effectively used its channels of communication, its geographical location and diplomatic capital to encourage dialogue and de-escalation at a time when wider conflict could have serious consequences for the region and the world, he said./p pHe reiterated that all disputes must be ultimately addressed through dialogue and diplomacy./p pOur security is linked to the peace and stability of our neighbourhood and the world at large. Pakistan will continue to support efforts that reduce tensions, protect regional stability and create conditions for cooperation, he said./p pThe president also went on to say that the country must focus on the work that will determine Pakistans future./p pWe must strengthen our economy, create greater opportunities for our young people, improve education and skills, strengthen institutions through a series of governance, economic and social reforms to ensure that the benefits of development and democracy reach every part and community of the country, he said./p pPakistans greatest strength is its young people. Across the country and around the world, they are demonstrating their talent in science, technology, business, education and the creative industries. Our responsibility is to give them the education, skills and opportunities they need to realise their potential. By investing in our youth today, we are investing in Pakistans future, he added./p pFor ordinary Pakistanis, national progress is measured in practical terms. It means a young person finding the skills and opportunity to build a career. It means a family being able to access quality education and healthcare. It means farmers, workers, traders and businesses being able to plan for the future with greater confidence. The strength of Pakistan will ultimately be judged by whether our national progress improves the lives of its people, President Zardari said./p pHe also voiced Pakistans support for the people of occupied Kashmir, saying Pakistan will continue to support a peaceful resolution of the dispute in accordance with the aspirations of its people and the relevant United Nations resolutions./p pOn Afghanistan, the president said that Pakistan had always respected and supported the national sovereignty of our neighbour Afghanistan and expected the same reciprocity./p pIt is sad that the current interim regime of Afghanistan is allowing and supporting a cocktail of terror groups to use their soil for launching attacks against neighbouring countries including Pakistan. It is sad the Taliban regime of Afghanistan is collaborating with India in launching terror attacks against Pakistani civilians and security personnel. They are doing this to distract us from the peace building efforts of Pakistan, recognised by the entire world, he said./p pI warn them to stop these evil actions against the people of Pakistan and assure all and sundry that the armed forces of Pakistan are capable of defeating these evil designs, he said./p pHe ended his message by calling on the nation to contribute to the countrys progress in whatever field they serve./p h2a id"pakistan-committed-to-defending-its-national-interests" href"pakistan-committed-to-defending-its-national-interests" class"heading-permalink" aria-hidden"true" title"Permalink"/aPakistan committed to defending its national interests/h2 pPrime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also began his message by paying tribute to the founding leaders of Pakistan, saying the nation owed the fulfilment of its dream of an independent homeland to their vision, statesmanship and sacrifices./p pHighlighting the governments economic achievements over the past two-and-a-half years, PM Shehbaz said the country had successfully navigated challenging circumstances to achieve economic stability and was now moving towards becoming a developed economy./p blockquote class"twitter-tweet" lang"en" a href"https://twitter.com/CMShehbaz/status/2088092027728625673"/a /blockquote pHe noted that remittances from overseas Pakistanis had increased by 11.3 billion over the past two years, which he termed a reflection of their confidence in government policies./p pThe prime minister said harnessing modern information technology, promoting innovation-driven industrial and agricultural development, creating employment opportunities and establishing a world-class education and skills system remained among the governments top priorities./p pPaying tribute to the armed forces, the prime minister said the military, under the leadership of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, had demonstrated exemplary unity and courage during Marka-i-Haq, adding another chapter to the countrys history of defence./p pHe said Pakistan remained committed to defending its national interests, including its right to water resources, and reiterated that the country would continue to play its role as a responsible nation and a stabilising force for regional and global peace./p pHe cited the a href"https://www.dawn.com/news/2021269"Makkah Joint Defence Agreement/a between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye as testimony to the countrys growing strategic role in the region./p pThe prime minister also expressed solidarity with the people of occupied Kashmir and the Palestinian people. He said lasting peace in South Asia was contingent upon a diplomatic resolution of the Kashmir dispute in line with United Nations resolutions, international law and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people./p pThe prime minister also paid tribute to the martyrs of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies who sacrificed their lives for the country, and called upon all segments of society, particularly political parties, to work together for national unity, integrity and the advancement of national interests./p pHe concluded his message by praying for Pakistans continued progress and dignity in the comity of nations./p h2a id"pakistans-strength-lies-in-the-unity-of-its-people" href"pakistans-strength-lies-in-the-unity-of-its-people" class"heading-permalink" aria-hidden"true" title"Permalink"/aPakistans strength lies in the unity of its people/h2 pCDF Munir, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu also issued a message to mark Independence Day./p pAccording to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the armed forces paid tribute to the Quaid and those whose sacrifices resulted in a sovereign Pakistan./p pTheir vision, courage and resolve remain a guiding force for the nation and continue to inspire us to uphold the principles and ideals of Pakistan, the statement said./p pThe armed forces of Pakistan respectfully acknowledge the supreme sacrifices of our martyrs, the services of our veterans, the dedication of law enforcement personnel and the contributions of every Pakistani who has served the nation. Their courage and selfless service have bolstered Pakistans resilience and safeguarded its independence, security and national interests, it added./p pAs guardians of Pakistans sovereignty and territorial integrity, the armed forces reaffirm their unwavering resolve to defend the motherland against all threats, uphold the Constitution and discharge the sacred trust reposed in them by the people of Pakistan. United with the nation, the armed forces will remain steadfast in preserving peace and stability while creating an environment conducive to national progress and prosperity, the statement said./p pPakistans strength lies in the unity and collective resolve of its people. On this Independence Day, let us renew our commitment to the enduring principles of faith, unity and discipline, strengthen national cohesion, promote tolerance and work together towards a secure, stable and prosperous Pakistan, it concluded./p h2a id"dar-reaffirms-determination-to-safeguard-countrys-sovereignty" href"dar-reaffirms-determination-to-safeguard-countrys-sovereignty" class"heading-permalink" aria-hidden"true" title"Permalink"/aDar reaffirms determination to safeguard countrys sovereignty/h2 pIn his message on the occasion, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar recalled Marka-i-Haq and reaffirmed Pakistans determination to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity./p pWe commemorated the first anniversary of Marka-i-Haq, recalling Pakistans resolute and successful response to Indian aggression in 2025, he said in a televised address to the nation./p pThe occasion reaffirmed our determination to safeguard Pakistans sovereignty, security and territorial integrity while remaining firmly committed to international law, responsible state craft and the pursuit of regional peace./p blockquote class"twitter-tweet" lang"en" a href"https://twitter.com/ForeignOfficePk/status/2087980175694979335"/a /blockquote pAt the outset of his address, the deputy PM extended greetings to Pakistanis and expatriates on the Independence Day, saying we commemorate the day to pay tribute to Quaid-i-Azam whose visionary leadership, unwavering resolve and steadfast commitment transformed the aspirations for a separate homeland into reality./p pHe also paid honour to the leaders and workers of the Pakistan movement whose courage, dedication and countless sacrifices laid the foundations of our independent state./p pDar said that since independence, the country had made remarkable strides across diverse fields guided by the enduring principles of unity, faith and discipline./p pToday we are a resilient nation of more than 250 million people bound together by our shared history, collective heritage and common aspirations, he added./p pHe also noted that the countrys achievements in education, science and technology, economic development, sports, culture and other fields reflect the talent, determination and immense potential of our people./p pThe deputy PM also mentioned Pakistans strengthened position on the international stage over the past eight decades./p pOur expanding diplomatic engagement, growing economic connectivity and partnerships, and deepening defence and security cooperation reflect Pakistans confidence and its commitment to contributing to a peaceful, stable and prosperous region and world./p pHe also mentioned the defence accord signed by Pakistan, Turkiye and Saudi Arabia last week, saying the historic agreement reflects our shared resolve to deepen strategic cooperation, strengthen collective security and addresses evolving regional and international peace and security challenges./p pHe also paid special tribute to armed forces, police and paramilitary forces of the country, saying their courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment remain a bulwark of our national security./p pDar noted the country always stood for peace, dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect among nations./p pHe referred to last years conflict with India and said the events underscored the urgent need of peaceful resolution of longstanding disputes, particularly the Jammu and Kashmir dispute which remains a source of instability in our region./p pPakistan will continue to extend its principles, moral, political and diplomatic support to the Kashmiri people in their just struggle for the realisation of their right to self-determination in accordance with the relevant UNSC resolutions, he added./p pOn the occasion, he urged people to draw renewed inspirations from the ideals and vision that led to the creation of Pakistan./p pLet us reaffirm our collective resolve to strengthen our institutions, uphold our national unity, harness the potential of our people and build a stronger more prosperous and peaceful Pakistan for generations to come, he concluded./p
BREAKING
BREAKING
BREAKING
BREAKING
BREAKING
BREAKING
BREAKING
BREAKING
BREAKING
BREAKING
BREAKING
BREAKING