ISLAMABAD: As the nation marks its 65th Independence Day, Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani asserted that the future of Pakistan lies in democracy.
He was addressing a flag hoisting ceremony at the Convention Centre in Islamabad on Sunday.
Gilani said the government will continue its policy of reconciliation, as mutual understanding between political parties is the only solution to all problems.
Gilani also said on the occasion that the government respects the judiciary and that all institutions must work together.
The flag hoisting ceremony was attended by Chairman Senate Farooq H Naik, Speaker National Assembly Dr Fehmida Mirza, Federal Ministers, Parliamentarians, Services Chiefs, diplomats, notables and a large number of students of different schools and colleges of Islamabad.
Sirens were sounded on arrival of the PM at the venue. Gilani raised the national flag while the national anthem played.
On this occasion, children from different schools and colleges of Islamabad presented performances on national songs, which enthralled the audience.
Nation must unite: Nawaz
During his Independence Day address to a public gathering in Lahore, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz chief Nawaz Sharif said the nation must unite to confront all internal and external challenges.
Sharif lamented the rulers of the pas, saying they failed to provide basic infrastructure to the people.
He highlight corruption, a weak economy, a lack of self-accountability and a breach of constitution as some of the reasons for the country not progressing.
The PML-N chief vowed that corruption will be confronted with full force and his party will play its role in ensuring rule of law and accountability.
Military celebrations
The day dawned with a 21-gun-salute by the army at Fortress Stadium in Lahore, followed by ‘change of guard’ ceremonies at the mausoleums of founders Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Muhammad Iqbal.
A smart contingent of cadets from the Kakul Military Academy took over responsibility of the guards from the Naval Cadets.
Sindh Governor Ishratul-Ibad and Chief Minister Qaim Ali Shah laid floral wreaths in the presence of Cabinet members.
A flag-hoisting ceremony at the Wagah border in Lahore elevated the moods of citizens, who thronged the venue in large groups.
The national anthem was played and the border area echoed with patriotic songs by schoolchildren.
Director General of the Punjab Rangers, Major General Bilal Hussain, presented sweets to his Indian counterpart as a gesture of peace.