The nation is celebrating Pakistan Day on Friday (today) with a renewed pledge to make the country a strong, progressive and prosperous Islamic welfare state.

The day is observed every year in commemoration of Lahore Resolution passed in 1940, which led to creation of Pakistan.

The day will dawn with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salute in provincial capitals.

Special prayers will be held for the country's progress and solidarity.

Pakistan flag will be hoisted on principal public and private buildings throughout the country and all Pakistanis missions abroad.

The day is observed a general public holiday as people from all walks of life will take part in different programmes to mark the occasion.

In order to pay homage to the Father of the Nation Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and poet philosopher Allama Muhammad Iqbal, seminars and functions will be organised in which speakers will throw light on sacrifices rendered by the people for the creation of a separate homeland for Muslims.

President Asif Ali Zardari and provincial governors will confer awards on outstanding civil and military personalities in recognition of their meritorious services at different ceremonies.

Newspapers will bring out supplements to underscore the importance of the day and the ideals of Quaid-i-Azam, under whose leadership Muslims passed Pakistan Resolution in Lahore on March 23, 1940, which is a momentous milestone in the history of Pakistan movement.

The public and private radio and TV channels will also air special programmes.

Thanksgiving prayers will be offered in all places of worship.

Boy scouts, girl guides and students will hold rallies while cinema houses will exhibit relevant documentary films to school children and the public at large.

In addition, special exhibitions of photographs, documents etc relating to the Pakistan Movement will be held.

The day will also be celebrated by Pakistani embassies and high commissions abroad.

Messages from the President and the Prime Minister will be read out in functions at diplomatic missions.