The Independence Day of Pakistan is being celebrated today with national zeal, fervor as Kashmir Solidarity Day to express full support to Kashmiri brethren reeling from renewed Indian repression. 

The day dawned with special prayers in the mosques after Fajar prayer for peace, progress, and prosperity of the country and liberation of the occupied territories of the Muslims.

Thirty one gun salute was offered in the Federal Capital Islamabad, while 21-gun salute in all the four provincial headquarters, Gilgit and Muzaffarabad.

Radio Pakistan has made elaborate arrangements to mark the day in a befitting manner.

The News and Current Affairs Channel of Radio Pakistan is airing special marathon transmission from 07:00 am to 12:00 pm.

During the special marathon transmission, interviews, sound bites and expressions of prominent personalities regarding Pakistan Movement and struggle of Kashmiri people against Indian's suppression are being broadcast.

Flag hoisting ceremony held in Islamabad

The main flag hoisting ceremony was held in Islamabad.

Addressing the ceremony, President Dr. Arif Alvi emphatically renewed Pakistan's unflinching support to Kashmiri people until they get right to self-determination.

He said we will not leave them alone at any stage. Kashmiris and Pakistanis are one. Our grief is common as their tears move our hearts. We were with them; we are standing with them and will continue to do so.

Flag hoisting ceremonies were also held in Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar and Quetta.

Change of guards ceremony held at mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam

In Karachi, the change of guards ceremony was held at the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah this morning.

A smartly turned out contingent of the cadets of Pakistan Naval Academy assumed the guards duties.

Commodore Irfan Taj of Pakistan Navy was the chief guest of ceremony.

He inspected the guard of honour and presented national salute to the Father of the Nation.

The chief guest also laid floral wreath at the mazar, offered fateha and recorded his impressions in the visitors' book.

Change of guards held at Mazar-e-Iqbal, Lahore

An impressive ceremony of Change of Guards was held at the tomb of the poet of the east Allama Muhammad Iqbal in Lahore this morning in connection with Independence Day.

During the ceremony a smartly turned contingent of the Pakistan Army assumed the charge of the guards’ duty from the Pakistan Rangers (Punjab).

General Officer Commander Major General Yousaf was the chief guest on the occasion.

Later, he laid a floral wreath on the grave of Allama Iqbal and offered fateha.—RadioPakistan