ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership has called for national unity, institutional reform and economic progress as the country marks its 79th Independence Day, stressing that the strength of the state must be matched by its ability to deliver security, opportunity and prosperity to its people.
The messages from President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the armed forces also underscored Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace while reaffirming that the country would defend its sovereignty and national interests.
The Independence Day celebrations began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes at provincial headquarters, alongside flag-hoisting ceremonies and a change-of-guard ceremony at the Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi.
A Call For National Renewal
President Asif Ali Zardari said independence was not simply a historic achievement but a responsibility that every generation must carry forward.
He urged Pakistanis to strengthen the economy, improve education and skills, reform governance and institutions, and ensure that the benefits of development reach communities across the country.
The president said the country’s greatest strength was its young population and called for greater investment in their education, skills and opportunities.
For ordinary Pakistanis, he said, national progress should mean jobs, quality healthcare and education, and greater economic security for families, workers, farmers and businesses.
Referring to last year’s confrontation with India, President Zardari said Pakistan had demonstrated both its desire for peace and its determination to defend its sovereignty and national interests.
““Our 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,” the president said.
He stressed that military strength must ultimately serve peace and stability rather than fuel conflict.
Pakistan’s security, he said, was inseparable from the stability of its neighbourhood and the wider world, and Islamabad would continue using diplomacy and dialogue to reduce tensions.
PM Shehbaz Highlights Economic Progress
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan had overcome difficult economic challenges and was moving towards greater stability and development.
The 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 government’s top priorities.
Paying tribute to the armed forces, the prime minister said the military, under the leadership of demonstrated exemplary unity and courage during Marka-i-Haq, adding another chapter to the country’s history of defence.
He 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.
He cited the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye as testimony to the country’s growing strategic role in the region.
Military Reaffirms Resolve
Field Marshal Asim Munir, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu also reaffirmed the armed forces’ commitment to defending Pakistan’s territorial integrity and national interests.
The military leadership paid tribute to the country’s martyrs, veterans, police and law enforcement personnel, saying their sacrifices had strengthened Pakistan’s resilience.
It called on the nation to preserve unity, tolerance and collective resolve while renewing its commitment to the principles of faith, unity and discipline.
According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the armed forces paid tribute to the Quaid and those whose sacrifices resulted in a sovereign Pakistan.
“Their 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.
“The 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 Pakistan’s resilience and safeguarded its independence, security and national interests,” it added.
Dar: Sovereignty Remains Non-Negotiable
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said the events surrounding Marka-i-Haq had reaffirmed Pakistan’s determination to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He also highlighted Pakistan’s expanding diplomatic engagement and strategic partnerships, while reiterating Islamabad’s support for a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute.
Dar urged Pakistanis to strengthen national institutions, preserve unity and harness the country’s human potential to build a stronger, more prosperous and peaceful Pakistan.
