Field Marshal Asim Munir Hosts Independence Day Reception for Veterans

As part of the 79th Independence Day celebrations, Field Marshal Asim Munir hosted a reception for veterans.

A grand City Parade was held at D-Chowk, Old Parade Ground in Islamabad on Independence Day. Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq and Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi were among the dignitaries who attended. Islamabad Police presented special parades and floats, which were appreciated by citizens. Inspector General of Police Islamabad Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi inspected security arrangements and encouraged participating officers. Islamabad Police's SWAT Force, Capital Patrol Unit, and Traffic Police actively participated, showcasing their professionalism and national spirit. Separately, a ceremony was also held at the Pakistani Mission in Scotland to mark Independence Day.

The National Grid Company of Pakistan (NGC) commemorated the nation’s 79th Independence Day with flag hoisting ceremonies held across all NGC installations and field offices throughout the country. The central ceremony took place at the TSG Training Centre in New Kot Lakhpat, Lahore, where Chairman Board of Directors, Dr. Fiaz Ahmed Chaudhry, and Managing Director Engr. Altaf Hussain Malik served as chief guests.

In his address, Dr. Chaudhry paid tribute to the sacrifices made during the struggle for independence and emphasised the collective responsibility to prioritise national interests. Engr. Malik reaffirmed commitment to Pakistan’s progress and prosperity, highlighting NGC's key role as the backbone of the country's power system. He also noted that NGC is becoming a regional transmission company by completing the CASA-1000 Project and connecting with Iran. Commemorative saplings were planted, and a newly renovated hostel was inaugurated during the event.

International celebrations for Pakistan's 79th Independence Day included a flag-hoisting ceremony at the Pakistan Embassy in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

International felicitations poured in for Pakistan on its 79th Independence Day. Saudi Arabia's King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman congratulated President Asif Ali Zardari, expressing wishes for progress and prosperity and highlighting strong bilateral ties. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian sent a message to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, reaffirming Tehran's resolve to strengthen relations. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also congratulated his Pakistani counterpart, Ishaq Dar, emphasizing political consultations and economic cooperation. US State Secretary Marco Rubio appreciated the partnership and bonds of friendship. The German Ambassador and Russian President Vladimir Putin also extended special messages.

Nationwide celebrations included a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in provincial capitals. A change of guards ceremony was held at the mausoleum of Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi. President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to the nation's founders and martyrs, stressing national responsibility and recalling the Marka-i-Haq military conflict. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif affirmed the protection of national interests. The President and Prime Minister jointly inaugurated a Victory Monument. Pakistan Army also held flag-hoisting ceremonies across the country. Celebrations extended internationally, with events held in New Delhi and at Pakistan House in Tehran. Saudi Arabia launched direct flights to Pakistan on this occasion. Civil awards were approved for various personalities, and a record 14,000 saplings were planted. However, celebrations in Karachi were marred by aerial firing, resulting in over 90 injuries.