The nation celebrated Pakistan Day on Wednesday with the armed forces displaying their full might during the annual military parade held in Islamabad, with envoys and dignitaries participating in the 48th Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) session attending as guests of honour.
The day commemorates the passage of the historic Lahore Resolution which was signed on March 23 in 1940, under which Muslims of the subcontinent aimed for a separate homeland for themselves.
The day began with a 31- gun salute in the federal capital and a 21-gun salute in all provincial capitals. President Arif Alvi, in his address on the occasion, said Pakistan was a responsible atomic power that desired peace with all countries.
Pakistan Day Parade - 23 March 2022 https://t.co/WHvg3o9SA3
— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) March 23, 2022
He also stated that the country would “never compromise on its security and sovereignty” and would give a fitting response to any aggression.
Highlighting extremism and the spread of fake news, the president said it was a big challenge facing society and called upon teachers, parents and scholars to play their part in resolving these issues.
In his message to the nation, Prime Minister Imran Khan said March 23 was the day for the nation to renew its commitment to adhere to the principles of justice and equity; the real objectives of the creation of Pakistan.
“Today, we pay tribute to the Father of the Nation and all the leaders of the Freedom Movement who struggled for uniting the nation through their unparalleled sacrifices. It is important for our youth to note that Pakistan came into being through a long democratic struggle and now the key to its stability and development also lies in hard work, honesty and morality.”
“While commemorating this day, we need to adhere to the principles of unity, faith and discipline given by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and rededicate ourselves to develop Pakistan as a truly democratic welfare state on the model of Riyasat-e-Madina."
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"On this day, it is pertinent to reflect upon the challenges confronting us as a nation. Our government has brought in long-term reforms and initiatives to alleviate poverty and promote justice. Our focus remains on the marginalized segments of the society and to provide them equal opportunities. Kamyab Pakistan Program offers huge economic benefits for the youth, farmers, small scale businesses and lowcost housing sector. Our flagship initiative of Qaumi Sehat Card will provide universal health coverage to all citizens, that is unprecedented in the history of our country.”
“We are now on the path to regain our past glory that was disrupted by previous regimes who gave importance to self-interests rather than national interest and welfare of the people. The struggle to eliminate corruption and improve moral standards would require the same persistence as our founding fathers persevered during the freedom movement,” he added.
The highlight of the day was the grand military parade in Islamabad, where contingents of the three armed forces and other security forces conducted a march past while fighter aircraft of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) presented a flypast, led by the chief of PAF.
Different floats depicting various aspects of culture from different provinces are also part of the parade.
Special prayers were also offered in mosques after Fajr prayers for the progress and prosperity of Pakistan.
Various organisations and departments have also planned a number of activities including seminars, conferences and discussion programs to highlight the historical significance of Pakistan Day.
PHOTO: RADIO PAKISTAN
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