Overview

• President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif delivered Independence Day messages urging national unity and invoking values of justice, equality and service to all citizens.
• The main flag-hoisting ceremony at the Pakistan Monument and a 31-gun salute in Islamabad formed part of nationwide observances including provincial salutes and special prayers.
• Shehbaz Sharif posted that Pakistan’s “historic victory in Marka-e-Haq” during the four-day May clash restored confidence and enhanced the country’s global stature.
• An ISPR statement from top military chiefs reaffirmed the armed forces’ commitment to safeguard sovereignty, uphold the Constitution and protect national identity.
• Indian media outlets such as The Statesman dismissed the victory claims as false, criticizing Pakistan’s omission of alleged cross-border terrorism and highlighting ongoing tensions.