Today marks the 75th Year of Independence of Pakistan, and it was marked with traditional zeal and fervour, through commemorative ceremonies held in cities across the country.
"Today we realise the difficulties that were faced in the course of [Pakistan's] freedom," said President Dr Arif Alvi, as he paid tribute to the leaders of the freedom movement. Celebrations began with change of guard ceremonies held at Mazaar-i-Quaid and Mazaar-i-Iqbal in Karachi and Lahore, respectively, and a 31-gun salute in the capital, followed by 21-gun salutes in all four provincial capitals.
"It is due to their sacrifices that we are here today," he said, as he congratulated the nation on the completion of 74 years of Independence on the occasion.
The president said that over the past 74 years, "three wars were forced upon us".
Recounting Pakistan's accomplishments of the past years, he said when India conducted a nuclear explosion in 1974, Pakistan managed to create a nuclear deterrent within just seven years after that.
Prime Minister Imran Khan's message on Independence Day came in a series of tweets by the Prime Minister's Office:
"As we hoist our national flag to mark Independence Day, we must reiterate the firm resolve to uphold our national values of unity, faith and discipline as envisioned by Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah"
"We have surmounted monumental challenges during the course of our history to emerge as a united, peaceful and resilient nation"
"Even today, the changing regional dynamics along with some domestic issues continue to test our resolve. Like each time, we will also overcome these obstacles with our characteristic determination and come out stronger as a nation."
"Pakistan today can stand tall among the comity of nations. Our policies towards reviving the economy, handling the pandemic, and protecting the environment have received universal acclaim."
"On this occasion, we should not forget our Kashmiri brothers & sisters in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK) struggling for their right to self-determination under extremely adverse circumstances marked by illegal Indian occupation & unspeakable repression"
"Pakistan will continue to extend its full support to the Kashmiris in their just cause. Kashmiris are looking up to the international community to fulfil the promises made to them."
"Pakistan has rendered immense sacrifices and paid a heavy price for instability on its Western border. We have consistently stressed that there is no military solution to the conflict in Afghanistan."
"Pakistan will continue to support a negotiated political settlement for durable peace and stability in Afghanistan. We want peace within and peace without, to pursue our socio-economic agenda."
"The Naya Pakistan has shifted its focus from geo-politics to geo-economics, with the well-being and welfare of our people as the topmost priority. Our government has undertaken every possible effort for the development and prosperity of Pakistan."
"This country is undoubtedly a gift of Allah Almighty for us. I once again felicitate all Pakistanis, both inland and overseas, on this auspicious occasion."
"I urge you to play your part in making Pakistan a proud, prosperous and peaceful nation state."
