Pakistan Day marked amid jubilation, commitments for peace, socio-economic development

Military band perform during the Pakistan Day military parade in Islamabad, capital of Pakistan on March 23, 2022. Pakistan Day, also known as the Pakistan Resolution Day or Republic Day, is celebrated annually on March 23.

The Pakistani nation on Wednesday celebrated the 82nd Pakistan Day with zeal and commitments to achieving economic progress, prosperity and peace.

Pakistan Day, also known as the Pakistan Resolution Day or Republic Day, is celebrated annually on March 23 to mark the passing of the Lahore Resolution on March 23, 1940, which is a major milestone in the struggle for an independent state.

In his message on the occasion, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan said that the country came into being after a long struggle and the key to its development lay in hard work, honesty and morality.

"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," the prime minister said.

The celebrations of Pakistan Day commenced with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital Islamabad and a 21-gun salute in provincial capitals followed by special prayers for the country's development and prosperity.

The national flag was hoisted high on major government and private buildings across the country. Meanwhile, a change of guard ceremony was also held at the mausoleum of the founder of Pakistan Muhammad Ali Jinnah in the southern port city of Karachi.

To highlight the historical significance of the day, a number of events and activities including seminars, conferences, book fairs, exhibitions, sports and cultural events are being held across the country.

Among the events, the highlight of the day was a grand military parade in Islamabad. The three armed forces of Pakistan and other security forces participated in the parade, whereas fighter jets performed spectacular aerobatic maneuvers witnessed by people from all walks of life.

Foreign ministers and officials participating in the 48th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation in Islamabad also attended the parade as guests of honor.

Addressing the parade, Pakistani President Arif Alvi said Pakistan wants peace with all other nations and respects their sovereignty.

Shiba Malik, a manager at a private marketing company, was participating in the parade event with her four children, all wearing white and green dresses, featuring the color of the national flag of Pakistan.

"My children were so excited that they could not sleep well last night. We woke up early in the morning today to attend the event. People around us are in a jubilant mood and full of spirit and passion, with renewed resolve for taking the country forward," Malik told Xinhua.

"Amid the multiple challenges our motherland is facing at the moment, adhering to the golden principles of our founding father Jinnah that is 'Unity, Faith and Discipline' would help us achieve arduous and strenuous goals for a successful Pakistan," she said.