Pakistan is celebrating its 78th Independence Day with great zeal and patriotic fervour today, Thursday, August 14, 2025. The day began with a 31-gun salute in the Federal Capital and a 21-gun salute in provincial capitals, marking the historic occasion. Special prayers were offered across mosques for the peace, solidarity, and prosperity of the country.
The main flag-hoisting ceremony was held at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad, where Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif unfurled the national flag in a solemn yet spirited gathering.
This year’s celebrations carry heightened significance, as the nation recently achieved a historic victory in the “Marka-e-Haq” against India’s unprovoked aggression—an event that has further strengthened national pride and unity. Cities and towns are adorned with national flags, buntings, and decorative lights, while citizens have raised the Pakistani flag atop their homes and vehicles. Radio Pakistan is broadcasting special programs dedicated to the occasion.
In his Independence Day message, President Asif Ali Zardari extended heartfelt congratulations to the nation, paying tribute to Allama Iqbal, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and the leaders of the Pakistan Movement. He described “Marka-e-Haq” and Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos as golden chapters in Pakistan’s history, showcasing the armed forces’ professionalism, unity, and strategic skill. He emphasised that these victories reaffirmed Pakistan’s full capability to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity, while also reinforcing public trust in state institutions.
President Zardari expressed solidarity with the people of Indian-administered Kashmir, vowing unwavering diplomatic, moral, and political support until their right to self-determination is achieved.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his address, thanked Allah Almighty and paid homage to the founding fathers, leaders, and martyrs of the independence movement. Reflecting on Pakistan’s 78-year journey, he credited the nation’s resilience in overcoming challenges across economic, defence, and technological fronts. He lauded the armed forces for their bravery during “Marka-e-Haq,” describing their courage and faith as instrumental in compelling the enemy to retreat within hours.
The prime minister also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding its national interests, including defence and water resources, and called for resolving all disputes, including Kashmir, through peaceful diplomacy.
