Pakistan’s 70th Independence anniversary marked with traditional fervour
Fireworks, parades, air show and many more events marked the 70th year of independence today (Monday).
On the night of 13th, many citizens took to the streets to celebrate the Independence Day with traditional fervour and enthusiasm.
The day dawn with a salute of 31 guns in the federal capital and 21 gun salute in provincial capitals. Special prayers were offered for the prosperity, integrity and solidarity of the country, unity of the Muslim Ummah.
Flag hoisting ceremonies were held in the provincial capitals and district headquarters, and change of guard ceremonies were held at Mazar-i-Quaid and Mazar-i-Iqbal.
The main ceremony of the day was held at Islamabad’s Convention Centre, where President Mamnoon Hussain hoisted the Pakistani flag. Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Chinese Vice Premier Wang Yang — who is the chief guest — and all three chiefs of the armed services attended the ceremony.
Pakistan’s largest-ever airshow held in Islamabad
The largest-ever airshow in Pakistan’s history was also held at Islamabad’s F9 Park. The event, attended by President Mamnoon and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman, will feature Pakistan Air Force, Turkish and Saudi jets.
“Solo Turk”, the famous Turkish aerobatic team of Turkish Air Force, and the internationally acclaimed “Saudi Hawks” of Royal Saudi Air Force won the hearts of Pakistanis with their amazing performance alongside PAF aircrafts.
COAS hoists ‘largest’ Pakistan flag at Wagah Border on eve of Independence Day
To mark the country’s 70th Independence Day, Pakistan hoisted its largest flag in its history at Attari-Wagah border near Lahore.
The flag is reported to be the highest in South Asia and the 8th highest in the world. Made in Pakistan, it is 400-feet high and 120 feet by 80 feet in size.
Pakistan Army chief general Qamar Javed Bajwa hoisted the flag at the border at 12 in the midnight, kicking off the festivities of Independence Day across the country.
The hoisting was followed by grand fireworks and an address by Gen Bajwa. “Some 77 years ago, Pakistan resolution was passed in the same city [Lahore]. Pakistan came into being on the night of 27th Ramazan — it was a blessed night,” said the army chief.