by Misbah Saba Malik, Jiang Chao
ISLAMABAD, March 23 (Xinhua) -- As the sleek silhouette of the JF-17 Thunder jet fighter streaked through the sky, its powerful engines roared in harmony with the beating hearts of hundreds of spectators gathering to witness the grandeur of the parade ceremony, held to commemorate the 84th Pakistan Day here on Saturday.
Amidst the backdrop of fluttering flags and patriotic fervor, the jet's aerobatic maneuvers elicited a symphony of cheers and applause, echoing the nation's admiration for its technological prowess and military strength.
The day commemorates the historic Lahore Resolution passed on March 23, 1940, following which a united struggle for an independent homeland for the Muslims of the region was launched, culminating in the independence of Pakistan in 1947.
The day is celebrated annually in the South Asian country, with the military displaying its might and expressing resolve to keep the nation safe from internal and external security challenges.
"For me, it is not only a commemoration of the historic day but also a celebration of Pakistan's strength. Despite many hardships, we remain united and always emerge stronger in the face of challenges. National unity is our spirit and our hope for a better tomorrow," said Sadia Ambreen, a banker witnessing the parade.
Talking to Xinhua, Ambreen said that she wishes to see a prosperous Pakistan and such ceremonies of the display of the country's strength not only elevate her patriotic spirit but also instill confidence in the potential of the country and its people.
In the parade ceremony, contingents of the Pakistani army, navy, air force, special services group, frontier corps, and scouts marched past the dais, presenting salutes to the country's civil and military leadership, as well as state guests.
Mechanized columns including tanks, armored personnel carriers, rocket launchers, air defense systems, guns, and missiles were also showcased on the occasion.
The parade also featured the march-past of the forces' helicopters, and skydivers exhibited free falls from a height of 10,000 feet, carrying national flags and those of the services.
The people of Pakistan observed the day with national spirit, and the parade was broadcast live on almost all news channels, witnessed by thousands of people on screen.
Speaking at the event, President Asif Ali Zardari noted that the Pakistani nation, from its independence to date, has experienced ups and downs, yet has seen development in many areas.
The country faces economic, social, and political challenges, alongside issues like population growth, climate change, education, and poverty. However, the newly elected government is taking actions to encourage foreign investment and boost the agriculture, livestock, minerals, mining, information technology, and energy sectors, he said.
The president also expressed gratitude to China, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and other friendly countries for standing with Pakistan during difficult times.
The parade culminated with the presentation of a patriotic song named "When Someone Asks Name, You Tell It's Pakistan," jointly performed by Pakistani youths from different provinces and ethnic groups dressing in traditional costumes and waving national flags.
"This is our message to the world that the people of Pakistan, from different regions and ethnic groups, stand under one flag, united as one family," an Air Force officer told Xinhua. ■
