Pakistan’s civilian and military leadership has emphasised national unity, institutional reforms and economic progress as the country marks its 79th Independence Day.
According to state-run Radio Pakistan, Independence Day celebrations began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and a 21-gun salute at provincial headquarters. Change-of-guard ceremonies were also held at the mausoleum of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi, while flag-hoisting ceremonies took place at the Supreme Court and Federal Constitutional Court in Islamabad.
President Zardari stresses peace, reforms and youth
In his Independence Day message, President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the leaders of the Pakistan Movement and those who sacrificed their homes, security and livelihoods for the creation of Pakistan.
He said independence was not merely a historic achievement but a responsibility that every generation must carry forward.
“But 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.
Referring to last year’s brief conflict with India, Zardari said the events surrounding Marka-i-Haq showed Pakistan’s desire for peace alongside its ability to protect its sovereignty and national interests.
“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.”
The president also highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue and de-escalation in the region, stressing that disputes should ultimately be resolved through diplomacy.
“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.
He called for greater attention to economic growth, employment, education, skills and institutional reforms.
“We 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.
Zardari described young people as Pakistan’s greatest strength and urged greater investment in their education, skills and opportunities.
On Afghanistan, the president accused the interim Afghan government of allowing militant groups to operate from its territory and alleged cooperation with India in attacks against Pakistan.
“I 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.
PM Shehbaz highlights economic progress and national unity
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid tribute to Pakistan’s founding leaders, saying the country owed the fulfilment of its dream of an independent homeland to their vision, leadership and sacrifices.
He said Pakistan had navigated difficult economic circumstances over the past two-and-a-half years and was now moving towards becoming a developed economy. He also pointed to an $11.3 billion increase in remittances over the past two years, describing it as a sign of overseas Pakistanis’ confidence in government policies.
The prime minister identified modern information technology, innovation-led industrial and agricultural development, employment generation, and improvements in education and skills as key government priorities.
Sharif also praised the armed forces for their role during Marka-i-Haq and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to protecting its national interests, including its water resources. He said the country would continue working as a responsible and stabilising force for regional and global peace.
He also highlighted the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Turkiye as evidence of Pakistan’s growing strategic importance in the region.
The prime minister expressed solidarity with the people of occupied Kashmir and Palestine and called for national unity, urging political parties and other sections of society to work together in pursuit of Pakistan’s national interests.
Armed forces reaffirm commitment to sovereignty
Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu also issued an Independence Day message.
The armed forces paid tribute to Quaid-i-Azam and those whose sacrifices led to the creation of Pakistan, while acknowledging the contributions of martyrs, veterans, law enforcement personnel and other citizens who have served the country.
The military leadership reaffirmed its commitment to defending Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and upholding the Constitution.
“Pakistan’s 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.
Dar vows to safeguard sovereignty
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also reaffirmed Pakistan’s determination to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity, recalling the country’s response to Indian aggression during Marka-i-Haq.
“We commemorated the first anniversary of Marka-i-Haq, recalling Pakistan’s resolute and successful response to Indian aggression in 2025,” he said in a televised address to the nation.
Dar said Pakistan remained committed to international law, responsible statecraft and regional peace. He also paid tribute to Quaid-i-Azam and the Pakistan Movement’s leaders and workers whose sacrifices laid the foundations of the country.
He highlighted Pakistan’s progress in education, science and technology, economic development, sports and culture, while pointing to the country’s strengthened international position through expanding diplomatic engagement, economic connectivity and defence cooperation.
Referring to the defence agreement between Pakistan, Turkiye and Saudi Arabia, Dar described the accord as a historic step towards deeper strategic cooperation and collective security.
He reiterated Pakistan’s support for peaceful dialogue and a resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, while urging citizens to draw inspiration from the ideals behind the creation of Pakistan.
“Let 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.
