Nation celebrates Pakistan Day today
The nation celebrates Pakistan Day today (Sunday) with renewed pledge to work hard for the progress and stability of the country.
The day marks adoption of historic Lahore Resolution on this day in 1940 that provided a framework for realization of the goal of a separate homeland for Muslims of South Asia. The Day will dawn with 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salute in provincial capitals.
Special prayers will be offered in mosques after Fajr prayers for the progress, prosperity and solidarity of the country. Pakistan Day parade will be held on a limited scale at Aiwan-e-Sadr due to the month of Ramazan. President Asif Ali Zardari will be the chief guest on the occasion. Contingents from all the three Armed Forces will actively participate in the Parade. Fighter jets from Pakistan Air Force will conduct a flypast.
An investiture ceremony will be held at Aiwan-e-Sadar in the afternoon where President Asif Ali Zardari would confer awards and medals to personalities for their outstanding contribution in different fields.
In connection with the Day, ISPR has released a special song with beautiful lyrics “Meray Mehboob Pakistan- Meri Jaan Pakistan”. Special message of the song is: “Aik Dil, Aik Jaan, Aik Pakistan.
President Asif Ali Zardari urged every Pakistani to rise above differences, reject division and negativity; and work together to build a prosperous, inclusive, and just Pakistan.
Today, the president said, they faced significant political, economic, and security challenges. In today’s world, Pakistan must navigate complex realities, tackle economic pressures, and pursue sustainable development. At the same time, they continued to confront the menace of terrorism and their brave Armed Forces were making immense sacrifices to safeguard the homeland, the president said in a message on the observance of Pakistan Day.
Yet, they also possessed the potential to overcome these challenges and emerge stronger, he said, adding the spirit of the Pakistan Resolution reminded them that ‘Unity, Faith, and Discipline’ should be their guiding principles for success.
The president congratulated the entire nation on Pakistan Day and said Pakistan had been established after great sacrifices and untiring efforts of the founding fathers and workers of the Pakistan Movement.
“We should focus on strengthening national security, revitalising the economy, advancing agriculture, ensuring energy security, and creating opportunities for our youth. We must invest in healthcare and social welfare to ensure no Pakistani is left behind,” President Secretariat Press Wing, in a press release, quoted the president as saying.
Following a foreign policy under the guidelines given by the Father of the Nation, President Zardari said Pakistan continued to advocate for peaceful coexistence, regional stability and mutual cooperation.
“We are determined to build stronger relationships with our neighbours as well as the global community, based on mutual respect and shared prosperity. At the same time, we remain steadfast in defending our sovereignty and territorial integrity. Our Armed Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies have made immense sacrifices to protect our homeland, and we salute their bravery and dedication,” he added.
On the day, the president reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast support for the people of Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine, who continue their struggle for self-determination.
Pakistan urged the international community to take immediate and decisive steps to ensure the implementation of UN Security Council resolutions, allowing the people of Kashmir and Palestine to decide their future, he added. “The road ahead is challenging, but not impossible. The same spirit that led to the creation of Pakistan can propel us toward a brighter tomorrow. The true strength of Pakistan lies in its people—their resilience, hard work, and patriotism have carried this nation through the toughest of times. Let us honour the sacrifices of our heroes by shaping a strong, united, and prosperous Pakistan,” the president further observed.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif greeted Pakistanis on the momentous day of national celebration on March 23 and said the nation was blessed with immense potential to achieve economic prosperity and secure its rightful place among the nations.
In a message on Pakistan Day, he said, “Heartfelt greetings to all Pakistanis on this momentous day of national celebration!”
He said, “This day stands as a defining moment in the history of South Asia’s Muslims. Eighty-five years ago, on March 23rd, the visionary Muslim leadership of the subcontinent united with an unwavering resolve to lay the foundation for an independent homeland.”
“Guided by the inspiring leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, they envisioned a state where Muslims could live with dignity, freedom, and self-respect, a land shaped by their aspirations and values,” he added.
He said, “On this landmark day in 1940, the Lahore Resolution set the course for that vision. Just seven years later, on August 14, 1947, Pakistan emerged as an independent nation, a testament to the unyielding spirit, perseverance, and sacrifices of our forefathers. Over the decades, Pakistan has shown extraordinary strength.”
“From an emerging nation to a nuclear power, our journey has been shaped by perseverance and unwavering determination. Yet, this is not where we stop. It will take steadfast will, tireless effort, and a collective vision to transform Pakistan into the nation envisioned by our founding father, Muhammad Ali Jinnah,” he continued.
The prime minister said, “Our armed forces, law enforcement agencies, and security personnel continue to safeguard Pakistan’s sovereignty and stability with great valour. We salute our martyrs who laid down their lives in the line of duty, embodying the spirit of sacrifice to ensure that our nation remains strong, united, and prepared for any challenge.”
“This year, Pakistan Day falls in Ramadan, a month of deep spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and renewed commitment to faith. It is a time that reinforces our collective will and serves as a powerful reminder of the values of sacrifice and perseverance principles embedded in our nation’s very foundation,” he added.
The prime minister said, “Our nation has been blessed with immense potential, and with the right policies, dedicated efforts, and national unity, we can achieve economic prosperity, uphold social justice, and secure our rightful place among the nations of the world.”
“No challenge is insurmountable, no adversity too great, if we stand united in our purpose and committed to our ideals. With determination, hard work, and a shared vision, we will continue to build a stronger, more prosperous, and progressive Pakistan. Pakistan Paindabad!” he concluded.
The Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) and the Service Chiefs extend heartfelt congratu-lations to the nation on the 85th anniversary of Pakistan Day.
The 23rd of March 1940 stands as a defining moment in our history—a day that crystallised our collective vision and set the course for the creation of an independent homeland. Rooted in faith, guided by hope, and strengthened by resilience, this occasion epitomizes the unwavering resolve of the Pakistani people. By the grace of Almighty Allah, our nation continues to progress under the banner of democracy, upholding the eternal principles of Islam.
With steadfast determination and divine guidance, Pakistan remains resolute in fortifying its democratic institutions and safeguarding the well-being of its citizens. The Armed Forces of Pakistan, ever vigilant and steadfast, reaffirm their unwavering commitment to protecting our sacred frontiers and upholding the sover-eignty of our beloved motherland.
“Today, Pakistan stands as a responsible and resolute member of the global community—advocating peace, stability, and cooperation. As one united nation, we march forward with renewed hope and an un-shakable commitment to enduring prosperity. We shall continue to uphold and defend the peace that de-fines our national character, ensuring that Pakistan remains a beacon of harmony in the world.”
“Pakistan is synonymous with peace, and we shall preserve and protect it—at all costs, Insha’Allah.
Pakistan Armed Forces Zindabad. Pakistan Paindabad.”
THE NATION