Rubio congratulates Pakistan on Independence Day, appreciates ‘engagement on counterterrorism, trade’

According to Geo TV, Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in each provincial capital. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif led a flag-hoisting ceremony in the capital, followed by a large-scale defence exhibition at Shakarparian Parade Ground.

Islamabad’s Metropolitan Corporation, in partnership with cultural groups, has also organised evening performances by traditional dance troupes from all provinces. Other festivities include art exhibitions, musical evenings, and children’s competitions.

The country celebrates its Independence Day one day before India’s. The Indian Independence Act had initially set the same date for both countries, and Pakistan’s first stamp, along with Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s first address, mentioned August 15 as its independence date.

The shift to August 14 came in 1948 for two main reasons:

• The power transfer ceremony in Karachi was held on August 14, 1947, allowing Lord Mountbatten to travel to New Delhi for India’s midnight ceremony
• The date coincided with the 27th day of Ramzan, a significant day in Islam.

Since then, Pakistan has continued to mark August 14 as its Independence Day, while India observes the original August 15 date.

(With inputs from US Department of State, GeoTV)

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