ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s top political leadership called for stability, reforms and global peace on Friday, Aug.14, as the nation marked its 79th Independence Day with prayers, national ceremonies and messages highlighting security, economic progress and unity.
The nation celebrated Independence Day with zeal and fervor. The day began with a 31 gun salute in Islamabad and a 21 gun salute in the provincial capitals. A change of guard ceremony was also held at the “Mazar-e-Quaid” mausoleum in Karachi.
President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, leaders and workers of the Pakistan Movement and those who sacrificed their homes, security and livelihoods for the country.
Zardari said independence was not only a historic achievement but also a responsibility for every generation. He said Pakistan must become stronger, safer and more prosperous through continued work.
Reflecting on the past year, the president said Marka-e-Haq showed that Pakistan wanted peace but had the resolve and ability to defend its sovereignty and national interests.
He also honored martyrs of the armed forces, law enforcement agencies and police, saying their courage helped protect the country from external aggression and terrorism.
On foreign policy, Zardari said Pakistan had used communication channels, its geographic position and diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue and reduce tensions. He said disputes should ultimately be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy.
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Message from the President of Pakistan, Asif Ali Zardari on 79th Independence Anniversary
On the occasion of the 79th Independence Anniversary of Pakistan, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all Pakistanis at home and abroad.
14 August is a day when we remember the… pic.twitter.com/ugukeVtuiz
— The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) August 13, 2026
The president also called for economic growth, greater opportunities for youth and reforms in governance, economic and social sectors. He described youth as Pakistan’s greatest strength and stressed the need for education, skills and opportunities.
Zardari renewed Pakistan’s support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and said Islamabad would continue supporting a peaceful settlement based on their aspirations and relevant United Nations resolutions.
He also criticized the Afghan Taliban regime, accusing it of allowing terror groups to use Afghan soil for attacks against neighboring countries, including Pakistan.
PM Shehbaz stresses economic progress, water rights
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the independence struggle as a source of immense honor and pride, paying tribute to Quaid-e-Azam, Allama Muhammad Iqbal and other leaders.
He said Pakistan had achieved economic stability during the past two and a half years despite major challenges. He also highlighted an $11.3 billion increase in overseas remittances over the past two years.
The prime minister said modern information technology, innovation-driven industrial and agricultural development, and skills training were key government priorities.
پاکستان اور بیرون ملک مقیم تمام اہل وطن کو دل کی اتھاہ گہرائیوں سے یومِ آزادی کی خوشیاں مبارک!
آج پاکستان کی آزادی کے 79 سال مکمل ہونے کے پُرمسرت موقع پر تمام اہل وطن کو دلی مبارکباد پیش کرتا ہوں۔ صد شکر کہ اللہ تعالیٰ نے ہمیں مملکت خداداد کی صورت میں آزادی جیسی گرانقدر نعمت…
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) August 14, 2026
He praised the armed forces for defending Pakistan and paid tribute to their courage during Marka-e-Haq under Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. Shehbaz said Pakistan remained committed to defending its national interests, including its right to water resources.
He also expressed solidarity with Palestinians and the people of IIOJK, while calling for national unity, development, peace and stability. He urged political parties and all segments of society to work together for national integrity and the country’s interests.
