Pakistanis mark Independence Day with fireworks and fanfare

Islamabad (TIP): Pakistanis celebrated the 75th anniversary (Diamond Jubilee) of Independence with traditional zeal, flag-hoisting, fireworks and fanfare. The federal and the provincial governments organised activities to reignite the spirit of patriotism among public and make them realise the value of independence. A change of guard ceremony was also held at the mausoleum of the Founder of the Nation, Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi. Earlier, the day dawned with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and a 21-gun salute in the provincial headquarters. Prayers were offered for the security and progress of Pakistan, and the well-being of the people. President DrArifAlvi and his wife First Lady SaminaArifAlvi visited an orphanage for girls in Rawalpindi and participated with them in Independence Day celebrations. The president said he wished to spend the Independence Day with orphans and today that wish was fulfilled. While greeting the girls of Kashana Orphanage on the eve of Independence Day, President Alvi emphasized the education for girls and said their role in nation-building couldn’t be overruled. (Gulfnews)