Nation marks 149th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah

WEB DESK: The nation on Thursday is celebrating the 149th birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, with a renewed pledge to uphold his guiding principles of faith, unity and discipline.

The day is being observed as a public holiday across the country. It began with gun salutes in the federal and provincial capitals, while special prayers were offered in mosques after Fajr for the departed soul of Quaid-e-Azam and for peace, prosperity and development of Pakistan. The national flag is being hoisted on public and private buildings nationwide.

Pakistan Army cadets assumed guard duties at Mazar-e-Quaid following a dignified change of guard ceremony held on the occasion. A smartly turned-out contingent of the Pakistan Army presented a salute at the mausoleum, where Major General Iftikhar Hussain Chaudhry attended the ceremony as chief guest.

A series of events, including seminars, debates and exhibitions, are being organised at official and civil society levels to highlight various aspects of Quaid-e-Azam’s life, achievements and leadership.

President Asif Ali Zardari, in his message, called on the nation to renew its commitment to the democratic and inclusive ideals of the Founder of Pakistan, stressing that his vision and leadership remain relevant in addressing contemporary challenges. He said Quaid-e-Azam’s principles of democracy, justice and equality must continue to guide national institutions and decision-making.

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Quaid-e-Azam stood for democracy, justice and equality, adding that these values remain central to Pakistan’s national journey. He urged Pakistanis, particularly the youth, to hold fast to Quaid’s ideals and play their role in building a peaceful, inclusive and progressive country.

Separately, Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu paid rich tribute to Quaid-e-Azam on behalf of the Armed Forces of Pakistan.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Armed Forces reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to Quaid-e-Azam’s vision of a strong, sovereign, democratic and prosperous Pakistan, founded on the principles of faith, unity and discipline. The statement added that the Armed Forces remain steadfast in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, while serving the nation with honour, courage and devotion in line with the ideals of the Father of the Nation.