Pakistan Marks Independence Day with Flag-Hoisting Ceremonies

Pakistan celebrated its 77th Independence Day with flag-hoisting ceremonies held across the country and in Afghanistan. High-profile dignitaries and officials participated in the events. They conveyed messages of hope, unity, and remembrance of the sacrifices made for the nation.

Pakistan Monument:

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif led the main ceremony at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad, where he raised the national flag. Notable figures attended the event, including national record-maker and Olympic hero Arshad Nadeem and Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani. In his message, President Asif Ali Zardari highlighted that the day marks the culmination of the long-standing struggle for self-determination by Indian Muslims. He stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law. He also emphasized the need to strengthen democratic institutions. Additionally, he called for unity, integrity, and economic stability.

Peshawar Governor House:

In Peshawar, a significant ceremony took place at the Governor House where Consul Generals Hafiz Mohibullah Shakir of the Afghan Interim Government, Shante Moore of the USA, and Ali Banafshekhah of Iran came together for the flag-hoisting. The gathering underscored the diplomatic ties and mutual respect shared between Pakistan and its neighbouring countries, further highlighting the importance of regional cooperation.

Pakistan Embassy in Afghanistan:

The Embassy of Pakistan in Kabul also hosted a flag-hoisting ceremony to commemorate the occasion. Pakistan’s Head of Mission, Ambassador Ubaid-ur-Rehman Nizamani, led the ceremony. Embassy staff and distinguished guests attended. The attendees read aloud messages from President Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar.

In his address, Ambassador Nizamani paid tribute to Pakistan’s national heroes, particularly the martyrs of the armed forces who sacrificed their lives for the nation’s sovereignty. He emphasized the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and other leaders of the freedom movement, urging citizens to follow their example to ensure Pakistan’s future prosperity. Ambassador Nizamani also called for a renewed commitment to uphold the ideals of the nation’s founders, ensuring that Pakistan’s flag continues to fly high on the global stage.