PM calls for unity on 78th Independence anniversary

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday urged political forces to set aside differences and work together for Pakistan’s stability and progress as the nation marked its 78th Independence anniversary.

Addressing a grand Independence ceremony at the Jinnah Sports Complex, attended by President Asif Ali Zardari, military leadership, federal ministers, and foreign dignitaries, the premier described Aug 14 as a date “etched in the blood of martyrs” and the triumph of the two-nation theory.

Paying tribute to Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, Allama Iqbal, and the leaders of the Pakistan Movement, Mr Sharif lauded the armed forces and “brave sons who place their lives on the line for the nation”. He praised Field Marshal Asim Munir for devising a strategy against India “acknowledged by both friends and foes” and described the May 10, 2025 “Marka-e-Haq” as proof of Pakistan’s resolve to defend itself.

The prime minister announced the creation of the Army Rocket Force Command to strengthen the country’s military capability against India. He saluted Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan, and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif for making Pakistan a nuclear power, reaffirming that the nuclear programme is “purely defensive” and aimed at deterrence.

PM Sharif thanked China, Turkiye, Qatar, Iran and the United States for their support, vowing continued solidarity with the people of Palestine and Indian-occupied Kashmir.

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Acknowledging the role of COAS Munir in finalising the National Security Plan and economic roadmap, the premier credited the judiciary for aiding the recovery of over Rs100 billion in tax cases. He said economic reforms after 2024 had averted crisis, with the stock exchange at record highs and global institutions recognising a “new era” for Pakistan.

“This is only the beginning,” he said, calling for reconciliation to present a united front to the world. He urged the youth to lead national reconstruction and announced new business programmes for their empowerment.