Independence Day, Marka-e-Haq’s celebrations held in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: A grand event to mark the 78th Independence Day of Pakistan and Marka-e-Haq, a 19-day military conflict with India which ended with the success of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos against the enemy’s misadventure, was held at Jinnah Sports Stadium in Islamabad.

President Asif Ali Zardari joined by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Field Marshal Asim Munir, service chiefs, senior military leadership, and ambassadors from friendly nations attended the ceremony.

Federal ministers, parliament members, and a large number of citizens, including First Lady Aseefa Bhutto and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, also participated.

Speaking on the occasion, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has offered all political parties to become part of the ‘Pakistan Stability Charter’, saying that everyone has the right to politics.

“I congratulate you on the completion of 78 years of independence. On this great day, I invite all political parties to become part of the Pakistan Stability Charter,” PM Shehbaz added.

He stressed that politics is a right, but agendas opposing the state are not. He added that criticism is permissible, but insults or defamation are not, encouraging political engagement while deeming rebellion against the country intolerable.

PM Shehbaz for prioritising Pakistan over political divisions or personal interests.

The prime minister vowed to prevent any new unrest in the country, lauding the armed forces for crushing India’s arrogance with their bravery, teaching a lesson that will be remembered for generations.

He expressed gratitude to U.S. President Donald Trump for his role in the ceasefire and expressed hope that Trump will play a robust part in resolving the Kashmir issue.