Pakistan Day celebrations begin with military parade

ISLAMABAD: The country is celebrating Pakistan Day today with the vow to work hard for the progress of the country.

The day marks the Lahore Resolution passed in 1940 by the All India Muslim League which became the basis of establishing an independent state for Muslims of the sub-continent.

The day began with 31 gun salute in the federal capital and 21 gun salute in provincial capitals.

Special prayers were held in mosques after Fajr prayers for the progress prosperity and solidarity of the country.

The national flag will be hoisted on major government buildings.

The main feature of the day is the military parade at the parade avenue in Islamabad where armed forces conduct march past and fighter jets present aerobatic manoeuvres.

President Mamnoon Hussain is the chief guest while Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and the services are witnessing the parade.

Speaking on the occasion the President said, "It was through the Lahore Resolution an idea became reality. The enemies thought that this new country with little resources will be doomed. But we managed to not only survive but also mark our place in the international community."

Special security arrangements have been put in place in the twin cities to avert any untoward incident. Mobile phone services have been suspended in the twin cities.