Pakistan Marks Independence Day with “Marka-e-Haq” Victory Celebrations in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD – August 13, 2025:
In a rare display of national unity and military pride, Pakistan celebrated its 78th Independence Day alongside a tribute to its recent military success in the “Marka-e-Haq” (Battle of Truth) conflict with India. The grand ceremony at Jinnah Sports Stadium brought together the country’s top leadership, armed forces, and international allies for a combined commemoration of freedom and victory.

A Joint Celebration of Independence and Triumph

The event, held a day ahead of Independence Day, was designed to honor both the nation’s hard-won independence in 1947 and the armed forces’ recent battlefield achievements. Military and civil leadership stood shoulder-to-shoulder in a public display of cohesion, with President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir serving as chief guests.

The ceremony opened with a stirring tri-services parade featuring the Pakistan Army, Navy, and Air Force. Adding an international dimension, military contingents from Türkiye and Azerbaijan marched alongside Pakistani troops, symbolizing Pakistan’s strategic defense partnerships. The skies over the stadium roared with a fly-past by fighter jets, some deploying flares in a dazzling display of air power.

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Prime Minister’s Address: Unity and Strength

In his keynote speech, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for all political parties and stakeholders to join a new national framework for stability — the “Misaq-e-Istehkam-e-Pakistan” (Charter for Stability of Pakistan). Emphasizing the need for unity in the face of external threats, he dedicated this year’s Independence Day to the armed forces’ victory in Marka-e-Haq.

The prime minister announced the formal establishment of the Army Rocket Force Command, a new dedicated military unit to enhance Pakistan’s conventional missile capabilities. Equipped with modern strike systems, the force will be capable of targeting threats from “all directions” in a conventional conflict.

Shehbaz Sharif also unveiled a digital model of the “Marka-e-Haq Monument”, which will serve as a national memorial to the May 2025 conflict victory.

Cultural and Patriotic Performances

The ceremony blended military grandeur with cultural pride. Traditional music, patriotic songs, and folk performances showcased Pakistan’s heritage, while visual tributes honored the armed forces’ sacrifices.

Nationwide Independence Celebrations

While the main event concluded in Islamabad, nationwide celebrations carried into August 14. The traditional flag-hoisting ceremonies were held at landmark locations including the Pakistan Monument, the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and the mausoleum of Allama Iqbal.

In addition, a large-scale defense exhibition at Shakarparian Parade Ground displayed weaponry and equipment used during Marka-e-Haq, drawing significant public attention.

Symbol of a Renewed National Spirit

The August 13 ceremony was more than a display of military capability; it was a carefully choreographed statement of national resolve. By linking Independence Day to Marka-e-Haq, Pakistan projected an image of unity, preparedness, and international relevance — both to its citizens and to the world.