ISLAMABAD: Pakistan marked its 79th Independence Day on Friday with a nationwide display of patriotism, from solemn tributes to martyrs and military ceremonies to fireworks, cultural performances and packed streets.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for national unity, sovereignty, peace and continued progress as Pakistanis celebrated across the country.
Pakistan gained independence on August 14, 1947, under the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah following a political struggle that culminated in the creation of a sovereign state.
Yadgar-e-Fatah inaugurated in Islamabad
Pakistan formally inaugurated Yadgar-e-Fatah in Islamabad in the early hours of Independence Day, dedicating the monument to the country’s military achievements and sacrifices.
The 80-foot-high monument was inaugurated in a ceremony attended by President Zardari, PM Sharif and Chief of Defense Forces and Cheif of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, along with senior civilian and military leadership.
The ceremony combined the commemoration of Independence Day with tributes to the armed forces and the sacrifices made in defending Pakistan.
The monument featured visual tributes through a 3D illumination projection system, adding a dramatic backdrop to the ceremony.
‘Freedom came through immense sacrifices’
PM Sharif said Independence Day commemorated the moment when Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah led the nation out of “the darkness of slavery” and gave it “the light of freedom.”
“We remain profoundly grateful to Allah Almighty for blessing us with the invaluable gift of freedom in the form of our beloved homeland, Pakistan!” Sharif said.
He paid tribute to the generation that endured the hardships of migration and made “unparalleled sacrifices” for Pakistan.
The prime minister also highlighted Pakistan’s recent military and diplomatic developments, including the country’s role as a responsible and stabilizing force in promoting regional and global peace.
Referring to the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement involving Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, PM Sharif described it as a testament to Pakistan’s growing strategic role.
Zardari highlights sovereignty, peace
President Asif Ali Zardari said independence was not only a historic achievement but also a responsibility that each generation had to carry forward.
“The events surrounding Marka-e-Haq demonstrated that Pakistan seeks peace, but also possesses the resolve and capacity to defend its sovereignty and national interests,” Zardari said.
He said Pakistan would continue supporting efforts aimed at reducing tensions, protecting regional stability and creating conditions for cooperation.
Zardari also referred to regional security challenges and said Pakistan’s armed forces were capable of defending the country against threats to its security.
He urged Afghanistan’s Taliban government to stop what he described as actions against Pakistan and said Islamabad remained committed to protecting its sovereignty.
Field Marshal hosts Independence Day reception for veterans
Chief of Defense Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir hosted an Independence Day reception for Pakistan Army veterans, with a large number of retired officers and soldiers in attendance, the military’s media wing said.
According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the field marshal paid tribute to veterans for their contributions and lifelong service in the country’s defense.
The event brought together retired officers and soldiers, with the CDF recognizing their service and contributions to the country’s defense.
He said veterans continued to have an important role through their experience, advice and involvement, particularly amid as an “increasingly complex and changing security environment.”
The veterans voiced confidence in the Pakistan Army leadership and said they would continue supporting the armed forces in dealing with emerging security challenges.
They also committed to contributing to national unity, peace, stability and prosperity.
Fireworks lit up skies as Independence Day began
As the clock struck midnight, fireworks illuminated the skies of major Pakistani cities, marking the beginning of the 79th Independence Day.
Large crowds gathered on roads and at public spaces in Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta and other cities, with national flags, green-and-white decorations, patriotic songs and chants filling the streets.
In Islamabad, D-Chowk and surrounding roads saw large numbers of vehicles and people, while Lahore’s Minar-e-Pakistan and Karachi’s Mazar-e-Quaid emerged as major focal points for celebrations.
Families, children and young people remained on the streets into the early hours, although heavy traffic left some motorists stranded in packed vehicles.
Traffic police and security personnel were deployed across major routes to manage the crowds and facilitate movement.
Military pays tribute to martyrs, armed forces
Pakistan’s armed forces paid tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founders of Pakistan and all those who sacrificed their lives for the country.
In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the sacrifices of the country’s founders and defenders had transformed the aspiration for freedom into a sovereign Pakistan.
“Their vision, courage and resolve remain a guiding force for the nation and continue to inspire us to uphold the principles and ideals of Pakistan,” the statement said.
The armed forces reaffirmed their resolve to defend Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, uphold the Constitution and discharge the “sacred trust” entrusted to them by the people.
“United with the nation, the Armed Forces will remain steadfast in preserving peace and stability while creating an environment conducive to national progress and prosperity,” the statement added.
Gwadar celebrates with patriotic spirit
In Gwadar, Independence Day celebrations began around midnight with residents taking part in festivities and patriotic activities.
Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti extended greetings to the nation and said Independence Day was being celebrated with “great zeal and enthusiasm.”
He said that from Kashmir to Gwadar and across Balochistan, “there is only one voice, and that voice is Pakistan.”
Gwadar resident Sheesh Baloch said the occasion represented the country’s liberation and the people’s continued attachment to Pakistan.
“This is the day when our beloved country, Pakistan, was liberated,” he said.
Another resident described Gwadar as a “game changer” for Pakistan and said he was proud to be a Pakistani.
A government ceremony in Gwadar also honored sacrifices made for Pakistan, with foreign guests among those attending.
PAF flypast added to Independence Day spectacle
During the Independence Day flypast over Islamabad, Pakistan Air Force fighter jets flew over Yadgar-e-Fatah, adding a military dimension to the celebrations.
The announcer introduced the aircraft as the “pride and spirit of the Shaheens of the Pakistan Air Force.”
Patriotic Urdu poetry accompanied the roaring jets, highlighting the pilots’ readiness to defend the country.
The flypast formed part of a ceremony that combined Independence Day celebrations with the inauguration of Yadgar-e-Fatah.
PM Sharif said the ceremony had created “a storm of emotions” and “an ocean of aspirations” among those present.
Gun salutes marked the start of national celebrations
The dawn began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in the provincial capitals.
The ceremonial salutes were accompanied by special prayers for Pakistan’s peace, stability, prosperity and development at places of worship across the country.
The early-morning ceremonies formally marked the beginning of a day of national celebrations.
Dar reaffirms commitment to peace, dialogue
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peace, dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect among nations.
Dar paid tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the leaders and workers of the Pakistan Movement for their courage, dedication and sacrifices.
He said Pakistan had made significant progress in education, science and technology, economic development, sports and culture.
Dar described Pakistan as a resilient nation of more than 250 million people, united by shared history, heritage and common aspirations.
He also highlighted Pakistan’s expanding diplomatic, economic, connectivity, defense and security partnerships.
“Pakistan has always stood for peace, dialogue, cooperation and mutual respect among nations,” Dar said.
He reiterated Pakistan’s support for the Kashmiri people and their right to self-determination in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions.
Bilawal calls for democratic, inclusive Pakistan
Pakistan Peoples Party chairman and Pakistan's former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari extended greetings to the nation and paid tribute to those who sacrificed for Pakistan and those who continued to defend its freedom, sovereignty and dignity.
He said Pakistan had been achieved through peaceful political struggle and the determination of its people.
“Our independence is a sacred trust, earned through sacrifice and sustained through courage, unity and commitment to the ideals for which Pakistan was created,” Bhutto-Zardari said.
He called on the nation to renew its pledge to build a peaceful, prosperous, democratic and inclusive Pakistan.
Bhutto-Zardari described national unity as Pakistan’s greatest strength and reiterated his party’s support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and their right to self-determination.
Heavy rain tested Islamabad celebrations
Heavy rain affected parts of Islamabad during the day but did not stop Independence Day activities across the capital.
According to rainfall figures issued by the Pakistan Meteorological Department, Saidpur Village recorded 65 millimeters, Islamabad Airport 48 mm, Islamabad City 15 mm, Golra 17 mm and Bokra 6 mm.
Despite wet conditions, people continued attending ceremonies and celebrations, while families and children remained visible around several public venues.
The rain also contributed to difficult traffic conditions in parts of the capital.
Pakistan Monument ceremony honors martyrs
At the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad, the Independence Day flag-hoisting ceremony carried a dignified and solemn atmosphere.
Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani served as the guest of honor and hoisted the national flag.
A Pakistan Army contingent later arrived at the Martyrs’ Memorial, or Yadgar-e-Shuhada, to present a formal salute.
Gillani laid a floral wreath and offered Fateha in remembrance of the martyrs.
Special prayers were also offered for Pakistan’s peace, solidarity, prosperity and development.
The ceremony reflected both the celebratory and solemn sides of Independence Day, honoring the sacrifices behind the country’s freedom.
Jinnah Convention Centre hosts major state ceremony
The Independence Day ceremony at the Jinnah Convention Centre in Islamabad brought together national leadership, children, women and young people for a high-profile state event.
The ceremony opened with devotional poetry before Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani delivered the keynote address.
The program also featured cultural performances, including Islamabad students performing Allama Muhammad Iqbal’s Saqi-Nama with singer Jabar Abbas.
The audience joined the students as they performed Iqbal’s famous call for youth to lead and inspire society.
Gillani stresses youth, women and national unity
Gillani paid tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, families who endured the hardships of migration and the armed forces and martyrs who sacrificed their lives defending Pakistan.
He noted that around 60% of Pakistan’s population comprised youth and stressed the importance of quality education, modern skills and opportunities in the digital economy.
He said women’s socioeconomic and political empowerment was also fundamental to national progress.
Gillani acknowledged challenges including inflation, unemployment, water scarcity, climate change and institutional reforms, stressing national unity, merit and the rule of law as essential to overcoming them.
He also highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic role and recent regional developments, including the Makkah trilateral defense agreement involving Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye.
World leaders and governments congratulate Pakistan
Russia
Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Pakistan’s Independence Day.
Putin said Russia-Pakistan relations were “developing with great success” and highlighted cooperation in political, trade, economic and humanitarian spheres.
“I am confident that we will continue our constructive joint efforts to further strengthen the entire spectrum of our partnership,” Putin said.
He wished the people of Pakistan “peace and prosperity.”
Saudi Arabia
Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman sent separate congratulatory messages to President Asif Ali Zardari.
King Salman praised the “strong relations” between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan and highlighted the two countries’ commitment to expanding cooperation across various fields.
The crown prince also wished Pakistan’s government and people continued progress and prosperity.
United States
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended warm congratulations to the people of Pakistan on Independence Day.
Rubio highlighted cooperation between Washington and Islamabad on regional mediation, critical minerals, energy, counterterrorism, cultural heritage, trade and investment.
“Together, through our cooperation on regional mediation, critical minerals, energy, counterterrorism, cultural heritage, and trade and investment, we are turning potential into progress,” Rubio said.
Separately, US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker met Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and appreciated Pakistan’s “constructive role” in promoting regional peace and stability.
China
Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong called on Dar at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and conveyed warm congratulations to Pakistan’s leadership and people.
According to the Foreign Office, Jiang reaffirmed the “close and time-tested ties” between Pakistan and China.
Iran
Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan Reza Amiri Moghaddam extended warm Independence Day greetings to Pakistan and praised the country’s “resilience, unity, and remarkable achievements.”
He said Iran valued its “friendship, mutual respect, and cooperation” with Pakistan.
Moghaddam described recent developments in bilateral relations as a “historic turning point” and reaffirmed his commitment to further strengthening ties.
Türkiye
Türkiye congratulated “friendly and brotherly Pakistan” on its Independence Day.
“Pakistan Zindabad!” the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a message posted on X.
Maldives
Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu extended warm greetings to President Zardari, Prime Minister Sharif and the people of Pakistan.
“The Maldives deeply values the longstanding bonds of friendship and close cooperation between our two countries,” Muizzu said.
He expressed hope that bilateral ties would continue to flourish.
Japan
Japanese Ambassador to Pakistan Akamatsu Shuichi conveyed greetings on behalf of Japan’s government and people.
He highlighted the longstanding partnership between the two countries and pledged continued cooperation for peace, development and stability ahead of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027.
Egypt
Egypt extended warm congratulations to the people of Pakistan, wishing the country peace, prosperity and continued progress.
The Egyptian Foreign Ministry said Cairo looked forward to “further deepening our historic friendship and strengthening our partnership.”
Bulgaria
Bulgaria extended best wishes to Pakistan on Independence Day, expressing hope for “continuous progress and lasting prosperity” for the Pakistani people.
Sofia also called for further enhancement of friendly bilateral ties.
Italy
The Italian Embassy in Pakistan extended its “warmest congratulations and best wishes” to the government and people of Pakistan.
The embassy highlighted friendship between Italy and Pakistan in its Independence Day message.
European Union
The European Union congratulated the people of Pakistan and described Independence Day as an occasion to celebrate “unity, freedom and national solidarity.”
The EU reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its friendship and partnership with Pakistan.
Patriotism on wheels
Karachi marked Independence Day with the 11th Annual Freedom Drive, bringing rare, classic and modern exclusive vehicles onto the city’s streets.
Organized by the Motor Club of Pakistan in collaboration with antique car collectors, the drive aimed to revive patriotism and national spirit, particularly among younger generations.
The convoy began at historic Frere Hall, traveled to Mazar-e-Quaid, the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and concluded at Nishan-e-Pakistan along the seafront.
The event brought together multiple generations of collectors and enthusiasts, combining automotive heritage with a celebration of national pride.
D-Chowk parade
Later in the evening, D-Chowk in the heart of Islamabad hosted a vibrant parade, bringing Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day celebrations to a close.
The event celebrated the country’s culture, history and patriotic spirit through a series of performances and displays.
The program featured a parade by Islamabad police, cultural performances, live music and bands, mascot appearances, a display of vintage cars and a vintage motorcycle squad.
The festivities concluded with a fireworks show as crowds waved national flags and joined in the celebrations.
Families and children from across the capital turned out for the event, creating a lively atmosphere at D-Chowk as the day drew to a close.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi attended the parade as chief guest and joined citizens in the Independence Day celebrations.
Speaking to Pakistan TV Digital, reciter Qari Azam Madini said the large turnout reflected harmony among the people.
“Alhamdulillah, today is 14th August and we made 79 here. And the people who came here, I saw that there was a lot of harmony between them,” Madini said.
“There was a war. Allah gave us victory from India. So, I feel that pride. And we all should feel this pride,” he added.
Madini further said Pakistan had become a “milestone in the world.”
According to the Capital Development Authority, around 6,000 seats had been arranged for spectators, allowing residents to watch the performances and celebrations.
With fireworks lighting up the capital and crowds continuing to wave the national flag, the D-Chowk parade brought a festive close to Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day.
This live blog has now been closed. Contributions came from Ibrahim Zulfiqar, Maisam Ali, Shizza Hashmi and Romesa Umar, with camera support from Ishaq Khan and Rizwan Khan in Islamabad; Faraz Saeed and camera person Muhammad Shahbaz in Lahore; Muhammad Usman and camera person Farmanullah in Peshawar; and Simran Siraj and Mursaleen Ahmed in Karachi.