Nation celebrates Pakistan Day with traditional zeal

The Nation is celebrating Pakistan Day today (Saturday) with a renewed pledge to work hard for the progress and stability of country.

The 23^rd March marks adoption of historic Lahore Resolution on this day in 1940 that provided a framework for realisation of the goal of a separate homeland for Muslims, Pakistan.

A day began with 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salute in provincial capitals.

Special prayers were offered in mosques after Fajr prayers for prosperity and solidarity of the country. National flag is hoisted on major government buildings.

A mesmerizing military parade in Islamabad was the highlight of the day where contingents of three armed forces and other security forces conducted march past while fighter planes presented aerobatic maneuvers.

Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu led the flypast which included J-10C and F-7PG fighter aircraft.

Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman Al Saud was the guest of honour in today’s event while the contingents of China and Azerbaijan also featured in the parade.

President Asif Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and all the services chiefs were present at the occasion.

Floats depicting culture of Azad Kashmir, Gilgit Baltistan and the four provinces were part of the parade.

The sky divers of Special Services Group exhibited free fall from a height  of ten thousand feet, carrying national flags and those of services. Afterwards, the national flag was presented to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

The parade culminated with presentation of a special song themed ‘Pochay Jo Naam Koi Tum Pakistan Batana’.

Moreover, 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.