ISLAMABAD — A spectacular military parade is underway at Parade Avenue in Islamabad as the nation celebrates Pakistan Day today (March 23).
The highly awaited event officially started with the national anthem. After the recitation of the holy Quran, President Asif Ali Zardari watched the parade from a jeep.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is also attending the event, and the Saudi Defense Minister has been a guest of honour at the parade.
The spectacular event began with a display of fighter jets from the Pakistan Air Force and Pakistan Navy flying overhead. Included in the flypast were newly acquired J-10 C, locally made JF-17, F-16, and Mirage fighter jets, along with AWACs, P-3C Orion, and ATR aircraft.
This day in 1940 marked the adoption of the historic Lahore Resolution, which provided a framework for the realization of the goal of a separate homeland for Muslims of South Asia.
The day it dawned with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and a 21-gun salute in provincial capitals.
After the morning prayers, special prayers were held in mosques for the country’s success and unity. Additionally, the national flag was raised on important government buildings.
An investiture ceremony is scheduled to take place at Aiwan-e-Sadar in the afternoon. President Asif Ali Zardari will present awards and medals to individuals for their exceptional achievements in various fields.
