Pakistan leaders call for unity and reforms as country marks 79th Independence Day

Pakistan’s civilian and military leaders marked Independence Day with calls for unity, reforms, youth investment and regional peace as the country confronts ongoing serious economic and security challenges.

WEBDESK – MEDIABITES

Pakistan marked its 79th Independence Day on Friday with the country’s political and military leadership urging national unity, institutional reform, economic progress and greater investment in young people.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the founders of Pakistan and those who sacrificed during the independence movement, while stressing that Aug. 14 should also be a reminder of the responsibilities facing the country today.

Independence Day commemorates Pakistan’s creation on Aug. 14, 1947, following the partition of British India.

Zardari calls independence a responsibility
Zardari said independence was not merely a historic achievement but a responsibility that each generation must carry forward.

He called for stronger institutions, governance, economic and social reforms, better education and skills development, and greater opportunities for young Pakistanis. He said national progress should ultimately be measured by whether ordinary citizens experience better access to education and health care, employment and economic security.

The president described Pakistan’s youth as its greatest strength, pointing to their potential in science, technology, business, education and creative industries.

“By investing in our youth today, we are investing in Pakistan’s future,” he said.

His message comes as Pakistan continues to face the challenge of creating jobs and opportunities for a large young population while strengthening its economy and institutions.

Peace, security and regional tensions
Zardari also emphasized that Pakistan sought peace but remained prepared to defend its sovereignty and national interests.

Referring to last year’s military confrontation with India, he said Pakistan’s ability to defend itself should ultimately be used to prevent conflict and protect peace. He stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving regional disputes.

The president also raised concerns about militant groups operating from Afghanistan, accusing the Afghan interim government of allowing terrorist groups to use its territory for attacks against Pakistan. Kabul has rejected such accusations in the past.

Pakistan’s leadership again called for a diplomatic settlement of the Kashmir dispute in line with United Nations resolutions and the aspirations of Kashmiris.

Shehbaz highlights economic progress
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan had navigated difficult economic circumstances during the previous two and a half years and was moving toward a developed economy.

He highlighted a reported $11.3 billion increase in remittances from overseas Pakistanis over the past two years, describing it as a sign of confidence in government policies.

Sharif identified information technology, innovation-driven industry, agriculture, employment creation, education, and vocational training as key priorities.

He also urged political parties and other sections of society to work together to strengthen national unity and advance Pakistan’s interests.

Military leadership stresses unity
The country’s senior military leadership also issued a joint Independence Day message.

Chief of Defense Forces and Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu paid tribute to the country’s founders, martyrs, veterans, and law enforcement personnel.

The armed forces reaffirmed their commitment to defending Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity while upholding the Constitution. They also emphasized tolerance, social cohesion, and collective resolve as essential to the country’s future.

“Pakistan’s strength lies in the unity and collective resolve of its people,” the military leadership said through an ISPR statement.

Independence Day celebrations
The celebrations began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes at provincial headquarters. A change-of-guards ceremony was also held at the mausoleum of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi, while flag-hoisting ceremonies took place across the country.

The messages from Pakistan’s leadership reflected a common theme: national strength must extend beyond defense and security to economic opportunity, institutional stability, political cooperation, and investment in the country’s people.

As Pakistan enters its 80th year since independence, the challenge for its leadership is to translate those calls for unity and reform into tangible improvements in the lives of its citizens.