ISLAMABAD: The nation is celebrating 67th Independence Day today (Wednesday) with renewed passion and abiding commitment to safeguarding the country against any threat and re-dedication towards nation-building in accordance with the vision of the founding father, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
The day dawned with 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salute at the provincial capitals. It is a public holiday throughout the country.
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif who was the chief guest, unfurled the national flag at the flag-hoisting ceremony held at the Jinnah Convention Centre in Islamabad. Later, he delivered his special message to the nation for the Day. School children also presented national songs on the occasion.
Flag-hoisting ceremonies were also held in provincial capitals, district and tehsil headquarters, AJK and Northern Areas. Change of guard ceremonies was held at the Mazar-i-Quaid and Allama Iqbal’s tomb.
Various social, cultural, religious, political and educational organizations have chalked out programmes to mark the day in a befitting manner and pay homage to the national heroes and martyrs of the independence movement.
Moreover, streets, localities, markets and government buildings have been decorated with colorful buntings, ribbons, green flags and pennons and multicolor lights in different cities.
Most people have badges of national flags pinned to their chest. The buildings are shining with electric lights and bulbs with festivities in full swing in every nook and corner of the country. National anthems and songs are being played on several places.
DND
