By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s leaders vowed to bring economic stability to the country as it celebrated its 77th Independence Day on Wednesday, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif promising to reduce inflation and electricity prices.
At a flag-hoisting ceremony in Islamabad, PM Sharif called for a “fresh journey with new zeal” to correct past mistakes and steer the country out of its current crises.
“We will work hard to reduce inflation and electricity prices… and revamp Pakistan’s economy,” Sharif said. “Hard work, honesty, and passion are needed to set the country on the path of development and prosperity.”
Sharif termed a decrease in inflation and electricity bills as crucial to providing relief to domestic power consumers, saying the nation can expect positive news on power bills within days.
He also announced plans to launch a five-year economic programme aimed at addressing the country’s economic challenges. “The nation will soon hear good news regarding power bills in the next few days,” Sharif said, without providing further details on the upcoming economic programme.
The premier paid tribute to citizens from various sectors, including labourers, daily wagers, engineers, doctors, journalists, and students, for their contributions to the country’s development.
Sharif also praised security forces personnel and law enforcement agencies for their sacrifices in combating terrorism, saying they had rendered “supreme sacrifices” in the fight against the menace.
“May we embrace unity, faith, and discipline in our strive for peace, justice, and welfare for all citizens as we work together to build a stronger nation.”
“Our unwavering commitment to Pakistan’s progress and prosperity on Independence Day 2024: reforms and continuous struggle, we will beautify tomorrow’s Pakistan,” the premier said on X.
President Asif Ali Zardari said the day marked the culmination of the historic political struggle of Muslims in India for self-determination and reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the people of India-occupied Kashmir and Palestine.
“We need to set aside our differences and work committedly for unity, integrity, and economic stability.”
Sharif hoisted the national flag at a ceremony held at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad, attended by Olympic gold medallist Arshad Nadeem, Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani, and other notable guests.
The day began with a 31-gun salute in the capital and 21-gun salutes at provincial headquarters. Special prayers were offered in mosques for peace, solidarity, and prosperity.
In Karachi, a Change of Guards ceremony was held at Mazar-i-Quaid, where cadets from the Pakistan Naval Academy assumed charge.
“Celebrating the spirit of 77 years of Independence by honouring our nation’s resilience, diversity, and unity on this Independence Day,” the government said in a post on its official X account. “Let’s continue to work together towards a prosperous and peaceful future for all,” it added, along with the hashtag “Azm-i-Istehkam” (resolve for stability).
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