Independence Day, Marka-e-Haq victory celebrated in IESCO Head Office

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Thu, 14 Aug 2025, 10:59 PM

ISLAMABAD, Aug 14 (APP): Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) celebrated Pakistan’s Independence Day and the Victory of Marka-e-Haq with great fervor and a strong spirit of patriotism.

The ceremony was attended by IESCO’s Chief Executive Engineer Khalid Mehmood, all senior officers, staff members, and their families, said a press release issued here on Thursday.

Special prayers were offered for the prosperity and glory of Pakistan. The Chief Executive of IESCO, along with other officers, hoisted the national flag, while security personnel presented a Guard of Honour.

Addressing the ceremony, Engineer Khalid Mehmood said that 14th August is not merely a coincidence; it is a story of struggle and sacrifice made by our elders and forefathers, through which we attained our free homeland, Pakistan. He emphasized that it is now our responsibility to devote all our efforts for the development and prosperity of this blessed country and to make it greater than ever.

After the address, the Independence Day cake was cut, and participants exchanged greetings. The atmosphere was further enlivened with national songs and chants of “Pakistan Zindabad.”

Chief Engineer Kamran Aftab, IESCO Engineers Association President Engineer Shehzad Jaleel, and other officers also addressed the gathering, stating that IESCO will always strive for the prosperity and development of Pakistan, as the country’s progress is the guarantee of a prosperous nation.

Fireworks, festivities, and heartfelt patriotism: KP celebrates Independence Day of Pakistan with national enthusia

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Kamran Muraad

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Thu, 14 Aug 2025, 10:56 PM

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PESHAWAR, Aug 14 (APP):As the clock struck midnight, the skies over Peshawar erupted in dazzling bursts of green and white fireworks that lit up not just the city skyline, but the hearts of millions across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Streets and bazaars echoed with chants of “Pakistan Zindabad,” while homes, schools, and public spaces shimmered with beautiful lights, flags, and the boundless spirit of patriotism.

This year marked the Independence Day of Pakistan and sucessful operation Iron wall and KP deeply woven into the fabric of the nation’s history where the celebrations went beyond rituals. It was a day of remembrance, unity, and heartfelt national pride.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa visited thrice by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah himself carried a unique connection to the independence movement feels deeply personal.

“We are not just celebrating a day rather we are living the legacy of our forefathers,” said 68-year-old Ahmed Gul from Peshawar, who brought his grandchildren to sports complex flag hoisting ceremony.

The day began with 31 gun salutes in Islamabad followed by 21 gun solutes in capitals of four provinces including Peshawar. Later, flag-hoisting ceremonies were held at Govt offices, educational institutions, semi Govt departments, and community centers amid national anthems.

But at the Governor House Peshawar, history and diplomacy shared the stage. Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, joined by the Consul Generals of different countries, hoisted the national flag and cut a ceremonial cake that symbolized peace, partnership, and unity.

“This is not just Pakistan’s celebration, but a reminder of what unity and freedom mean in a global world,” Governor Kundi remarked. “We must carry forward the message of hard work, sacrifice, freedom and integrity.”

While CM KP and others dignitaries addressed the formal events, it was the everyday citizens whose passion truly lit up the day.

In DI Khan, children dressed in green and white paraded with miniature flags, singing national songs at the Police Lines where Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur presided over another moving ceremony.

“The flag we hoist today was earned with blood and bravery,” Gandapur said, planting a sapling to mark new beginnings. “Our freedom came with sacrifice, and we must prepare our youth to protect and carry it forward.”

Among the crowd, 12-year-old Areeba clutched her little Pakistani flag tightly. “I want to be a doctor so I can serve my people. Today reminds me how lucky we are to have our own country.”

In Peshawar Cantonment, the Pakistan Muslim League (N) held its own vibrant celebration and cake cutting ceremony, led by Federal Minister Engr Amir Muqam.

Speaking to party members and citizens, he emphasized unity over division. “Our journey from independence to nuclear strength is one of perseverance and vision,” he said, invoking the legacy of leaders like former prime minister Nawaz Sharif and the contributions of KP’s people for Pakistan.

The message was clear on the historic day that Pakistan’s story is not just one of struggle, but of triumph against all odds.

At the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry, national songs and chants of “Long Live Pakistan” filled the air. Traders, entrepreneurs, and children alike gathered in a show of solidarity that transcended business and politics.

“We may be traders,” said SCCI President Fazal Moqeem Khan, “but today we trade in love for our homeland.”

Young children danced to patriotic tunes, while elders shared stories of Partition and migration that was a tapestry of emotion that connected generations.

Special prayers were offered across the province especially in mosques, churches, gurdwaras, and temples for peace, progress, and unity. Tributes were paid to the martyrs of the armed forces, and the sacrifices of law enforcement officials who ensured that Pakistan remains a safe homeland.

The children took keen interest in independence day accessories that filed the cities, villages mohalla and homes with warmth and love for Pakistan.

As night fell, and fireworks once again painted the skies of KP, one thing was clear that Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day was not just observed but it was felt deeply, celebrated joyfully, and honored with pride.

And in the words of a young girl Anaya Bibi waving a flag in Peshawar’s Qissa Khwani Bazaar, “Hum azaad hain — aur yeh sabse bari baat hai.” (We are free — and that is the most important thing.)

Embassy of Pakistan, Cairo marks 78th Independence Day

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Kamran Muraad

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Thu, 14 Aug 2025, 10:53 PM

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CAIRO, Aug 14 (APP): The Embassy of Pakistan in Cairo celebrated Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day with traditional zeal.

Ambassador Aamir Shouket hoisted the national flag at the Chancery, followed by the National Anthem, recitation from the Holy Quran, and messages from the President, Prime Minister, and Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister.

In his address, Ambassador Shouket paid tribute to the sacrifices of Pakistan’s founding fathers under the leadership of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. He lauded the nation’s unity and resilience, particularly during Operation Bunyan-Al-Marsoos in May 2025, which he said enhanced Pakistan’s global standing as a responsible and dignified state.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Kashmiri and Palestinian peoples, the Ambassador also highlighted the growing political, economic, defence, and cultural ties between Pakistan and Egypt. He praised the Pakistani community in Egypt for their contributions to national development and their role in strengthening bilateral relations.

The ceremony was attended by embassy officials and members of the Pakistani community from various walks of life.

NH&MP marks 78th Independence Day with patriotic zeal

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Kamran Muraad

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Thu, 14 Aug 2025, 10:45 PM

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ISLAMABAD, Aug 14 (APP): National Highways and Motorway Police (NH&MP) on Thursday celebrated 78th Independence Day with patriotic zeal, hosting special ceremonies at its headquarters and across the country.

NH&MP marks 78th Independence Day with patriotic zeal

At the main ceremony in Islamabad, Inspector General B.A. Nasir hoisted the national flag, followed by a salute from a smartly turned-out contingent. Officers, officials, staff members, and their children participated in the event, which also featured a cake-cutting to mark the occasion, said a press release.

Congratulating the nation and the force, the IG motorway police prayed for Pakistan’s security and prosperity, paying tribute to the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in achieving independence. “Freedom is a great blessing, and safeguarding it is our shared responsibility,” he said.

He commended NH&MP officers for their sacrifices and service, noting that national highways and motorways are the economic lifeline of the country, and their safety ensures national security, stability, and development. He reaffirmed that the force works with honesty, impartiality, and dedication in line with Quaid-e-Azam’s principles, remaining ever-ready to protect road users and infrastructure.

To mark the day, NH&MP offices in all zones, sectors, and beats were decorated with lights and green-and-white flags. National songs and the anthem were played on LED screens at toll plazas and service areas, while passengers received flags, Independence Day pamphlets, and gift hampers. The IG also distributed special gifts among children attending the ceremony.

Pakistan embassy in Paris celebrates Independence Day

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Kamran Muraad

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Thu, 14 Aug 2025, 10:40 PM

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PARIS, Aug 14 (APP):The Pakistan Embassy in Paris celebrated Pakistan’s Independence Day with a flag hoisting ceremony. Ambassador Mumtaz Zahra Baloch raised the Pakistani flag to the tune of the national anthem in the presence of members of the diaspora, embassy officials, and Pakistani families including a large number of children.

Pakistan embassy in Paris celebrates Independence Day

The messages of the President, the Prime Minister and the Foreign Minister of Pakistan were read out on the occasion. The colourful Independence Day program included national songs and documentary. Later, the guests enjoyed traditional Pakistani food.

Speaking on the occasion, the Ambassador paid tribute to the workers of the Pakistan Movement led by the Quaid-i-Azam and martyrs who gave their lives for Pakistan. She paid homage to teachers, workers, farmers, scientists and entrepreneurs who have contributed to the progress of Pakistan. She also expressed solidarity with the people of Kashmir in their just struggle for independence.

Ambassador Baloch lauded the courage and professional excellence displayed by the armed forces of Pakistan in Marka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos in face of a naked aggression by India. This success, she said, has renewed a sense of pride and hope in the Pakistani nation and sent a loud message to the world that Pakistan has the will and strength to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The ambassador also appreciated Pakistani community in France for their commitment to Pakistan and for their impressive contributions in promoting Pakistan-France relations.

Nation celebrated 79th Independence Day with enthusiasm, unity

By

Kamran Muraad

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Thu, 14 Aug 2025, 10:33 PM

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By Muhammad Ali Otho

ISLAMABAD, Aug 14 (APP): The entire nation on Thursday celebrated its 79th Independence Day on August 14 across the country and Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) with national zeal and enthusiasm with a renewed pledge to work with spirit of Pakistan Movement to make country a true Islamic welfare state.

The day dawned with thirty-one gun salute at the Federal Capital and twenty-one gun salutes at provincial headquarters.

Special prayers were offered in mosques for peace, solidarity, and prosperity of the country. The main flag hoisting ceremony was held at Pakistan Monument where Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hoisted the national flag.

President Asif Ali Zardari said that nation celebrated the Independence Day with a sense of renewed pride and hope as recently the nation had reaffirmed its strength, resolve, and unity in the face of external aggression.

“Our success in Marka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos is a landmark moment in our history. It was a demonstration of unshakable national will, professional excellence, and united purpose,” the president said.

The president conferred military awards on officers, soldiers of armed forces for their conspicuous courage and supreme sacrifice rendered during Operation “Bunyan-Um-Marsoos. The military awards included eight Sitara-i-Jurat, five Tamgha-i-Jurat, 24 Sitara-i-Basalat, 45 Tamgha-i-Basalat, 146 Imtiazi Asnad, 259 COAS Commendation Cards and one Tamgha-i-Imtiaz (Military).

President Zardari conferred prestigious national awards to federal ministers, civil servants, armed forces personnel, journalists, and other civilians, in recognition of their extraordinary valor, courage, and respective contributions during the Marka-e-Haq Operation Bunyan-Um-Marsoos.

The civil and military awards were conferred at a special investiture ceremony, held at the Aiwan-e-Sadr on the occasion of the Independence Day

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif extended his sincere invitation to all political parties and segments of the society to join hands with them in strengthening their resolve to safeguard the national interests. “In this way, we can untidily and collectively make our nation successful and prosper to help realize the dream of our forefathers and martyrs, which they had envisioned in the form of establishment of Pakistan.”

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and Governor Kamran Khan Tessori paid a visit to the mausoleum of the founder of Pakistan Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah on Independence Day Ma’arka-e-Haq. The governor laid a floral wreath at the grave of Quaid-i-Azam and offered fatiha. They hoisted the national flag at mausoleum of the founder of Pakistan.

An impressive change of guard ceremony was held at mausoleum of ‘Muffakir-e-Pakistan’ Dr Allama Muhammad Iqbal.

Acting Punjab Governor Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan also visited Iqbal’s mausoleum and laid wreath, adding he offered Fateha and recorded his impressions in the visitors’ book.

A dignified flag-hoisting ceremony was held at Governor House, Peshawar, on the occasion of Pakistan’s Independence Day, with Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi performing the flag hoisting.

The Sindh Government’s Sports Department organized the “Marka-e-Haq MM Alam Cycle Rally” on the occasion of the 79th Independence Day, with support from the Crown Group. The rally started from the Youth Development Center of the Sports Department at PIDC and concluded at the Mazar-i-Quaid via the Saddar route.

The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) marked the nation’s Independence Day with flag hoisting ceremonies at airports across the country, which the main ceremony held at the PAA Headquarters and a large number of PAA officers and staff were present, along with children dressed in national colors waving flags, as patriotic songs played in the background.

The main event took place at Chinar Bagh, where Gilgit-Baltistan Minister for Home Affairs Shams Lone hoisted the national flag, laid floral wreaths at the Martyrs’ Monument and offered fateha.

No stone to be left unturned to improve lives of people: CM Maryam

By

Kamran Muraad

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Thu, 14 Aug 2025, 10:31 PM

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LAHORE, Aug 14 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif said on Thursday that she would leave no stone unturned to improve the lives of the people.

While addressing the unveiling ceremony of ‘Marka-i- Haq’ Monument, Museum and Park Project, she said, “We pledge to play our vibrant role in freeing Pakistan from poverty.”

She said that when the Pakistan Air Force downed the Rafale jets with JF-Thunders, no one could believe it.

She highlighted,” If we had been politically divided, we could never have won the war against the enemy. From the Battle of Truth (‘Marka-i- Haq’), the world learned what ‘Bunyan-um- Marsoos’ means.”

“During my visits in various colleges across Punjab for the distribution of laptops to the talented students, I understood the phrase, ‘This homeland is yours, you are its guardians.’ The entire nation got united and became an iron wall against the enemy’s aggression”, she added.

She outlined, “The entire nation salutes those who downed the enemy’s Rafale aircraft. I pay profound tribute to COAS Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, who displayed exemplary wartime leadership and led Pakistan to victory. This Independence Day celebration is marked for the whole Pakistani nation. The entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with the Pakistan Armed Forces like an iron wall.”

She underscored, “Independence Day is dedicated to those mothers who send their sons to the battlefield with a lion’s heart.The whole nation, Nawaz Sharif and myself pay tribute with profound reverence to the brave mothers who bid farewell to their young sons to the battlefield. We salute those brave daughters who sacrifice their marital life for the sake of sacred homeland, and the children who bear the pain of orphanage for the sake of the defence and protection of our dear homeland. The Independence Day is meant for those sons who gave their precious blood to safeguard their dear motherland.”

She maintained,” We dedicate the Independence Day to the valiant warriors who fought bravely on the borders. Every year we celebrate our Independence Day, but on account of Marka-i- Haq, this year’s rejoice is unparalleled. Today is dedicated to the valiant soldiers, who gave a befitting reply to the enemy’s aggressive designs, to the leadership, officers, and soldiers of the Pakistan Armed Forces, and to Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, who made the country a nuclear power and rendered its defence impregnable.”

She said, “The journey of decline that began in 2018 has ended. This soil is very fertile and Pakistan had defeated an enemy in a befitting manner.”

100 recitations of Holy Quran for blessings to martyrs completed at Governor House

By

Kamran Muraad

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Thu, 14 Aug 2025, 10:30 PM

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KARACHI, Aug 14 (APP):Governor Sindh Kamran Khan Tessori hosted a ‘Quran Khuwani’ with the blessings dedicated to the martyrs of Marka-e-Haq, especially the martyrs of Karbala on Thursday.

100 recitations of the Holy Quran were completed in the congregation held at the Governor House Karachi, that was participated by the Governor Kamran Tessori, senior central leader of Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan Dr. Farooq Sattar, Anees Qaimkhani and the house staff and others.

Governor Tessori, in a statement issued here, said that Pakistan came into existence on August 14, and with the grace of Allah Almighty and this beloved homeland will remain safe until the end of time.

He said that the purpose of celebrating the Independence Day, Ma’arka-e-Haq, was to eloquently express the passion and unity of the entire nation. “India attacked under the cover of darkness, but the Pakistan Armed Forces gave a strong and fitting response. Despite having five times more power, India was hollow from within. Our Air Force, Navy, and Army completely crushed them,” he remarked and noted that the younger generation had the opportunity to witness how the Pakistan Armed Forces inflicted a historic defeat on India.

Kamran Tessori stated that from August 1 to August 14, he fulfilled his promise of organizing Marka-e-Haq, Jashn-e-Azadi programs, which featured the largest digital stage in history, a massive national flag, and numerous shows.

Pakistan’s voice resonates globally, foreign investors eye new opportunities: Minister Qaiser Sheikh

By

Kamran Muraad

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Thu, 14 Aug 2025, 10:27 PM

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FAISALABAD/CHINIOT, Aug 14 (APP): Federal Minister for Board of Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh has said that Pakistan’s voice is now being heard across the globe as the country is moving steadily on a positive trajectory that has strengthened its image internationally.

Speaking to the media during an Independence Day and Marka-e-Haq ceremony at his Dera in Chiniot, he said that the nation is celebrating Independence Day with great zeal, unity and national spirit while the recent victory in the Marka-e-Haq has doubled the joy of this national occasion.

He said that Pakistan is advancing rapidly on the road to progress and prosperity by earning recognition not only from its citizens but also from the international community.

He expressed satisfaction that Pakistan’s name is now mentioned positively in every corner of the world. He said that the people across the country are celebrating Independence Day and Marka-e-Haq in their own ways and contributing to national development.

He highlighted Pakistan’s growing global standing and said that the national economic outlook has recently been upgraded by a leading international rating agency, following earlier upgrades by two other major global firms. The investor’s confidence has surged with all three of the world’s largest rating agencies recognizing improvements in Pakistan’s economic and trade performance, he added.

He noted that Pakistan Stock Exchange has shown remarkable growth, climbing from 40,000 points two years ago to nearly 150,000 points today which is a clear indicator of strong market sentiment.

He underscored the benefits of recent trade policies, revealing that the United States has granted Pakistan a preferential tariff rate of 19 percent, compared to India’s 50 percent and South Africa’s 30 percent.

This advantage would give Pakistani exports a competitive edge in global markets and boost domestic industries, he added.

He said that during visits to South Africa and other countries, he invited foreign investors to establish industries in Pakistan, enabling exports to the U.S. and other markets at reduced tariff rates. This strategy would yield substantial economic benefits, he added.

The minister further revealed that the government is developing a modern industrial hub in Chiniot which would serve as a future center for national exports. This initiative is designed to provide a conducive environment for both local and international investors to set up manufacturing facilities, he added.

He said that the government is prioritizing youth education and skill development to produce a highly skilled workforce capable of contributing effectively both at home and abroad.

In line with this vision, more employment opportunities are being created and vocational training programs are equipping young people with modern expertise, he added.

He compared Pakistan’s strategic geographic position with South Africa’s role as a gateway to the African continent and said that Pakistan serves as a gateway to Central Asia which is making it an attractive destination for global investors.

He said that the government is striving hard to disseminate fruits of economic growth and investment to the common people by reducing poverty, creating jobs and expanding educational access so that Pakistan can continue to strengthen its identity as a prosperous, stable and progressive nation.

Earlier, the minister also distributed free petrol of five liters each among more than 10,000 motorcyclists and rickshaw drivers as a remarkable gesture of public service on the occasion of Independence Day.