Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced the creation of an Army Rocket Force during the central Independence Day ceremony in Islamabad.

He paid tribute to the vision of unity, faith and discipline that shaped the nation. PM Shehbaz invited political parties and stakeholders to join a "charter of stability", emphasising that this initiative does not serve economic recovery only, but forms the cornerstone of national interest. He said: “Differences may persist elsewhere, but for Pakistan, we stand united.”

Offering congratulations on the nation’s 78th Independence Day, PM honoured the sacrifices of forebears, stating that the struggle represented not mere liberation but triumph of the Two‑Nation Theory. He offered homage to Quaid‑i‑Azam, Allama Iqbal and all leaders of the Pakistan Movement.

PM Shehbaz recounted that a few individuals change the course of history. He referred to the occasion as the “Marka-e-Haq”, noting that India attacked Pakistan based on false accusations, but its arrogance was crushed within four days despite reliance on military might.

He praised Field Marshal Asim Munir and other valiant commanders, describing their defence strategy as one that will echo through generations. He termed Field Marshal Munir “a great son of the nation”.

Mr Sharif stated that on 10 May 2025 a new nation emerged, capable of delivering a powerful response to any adversary. He reiterated Pakistan’s status as the only Islamic country and the seventh nuclear power globally. He paid tribute to Nawaz Sharif for rejecting pressure on 28 May 1998 and refusing any compromise on national defence.

He clarified that Pakistan’s nuclear capability does not reflect aggression, but serves as a defensive pillar. He thanked allied countries — China, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, Azerbaijan and Iran — for their vocal support.

He commended US President Donald Trump for his "positive" role in cease‑fire efforts and expressed hope that Trump will help achieve lasting peace by resolving the Kashmir issue.

PM Shehbaz affirmed that the Pakistan Muslim League‑Nawaz has prioritised public welfare, steering the country away from bankruptcy. Inflation has dropped to five per cent and interest rates have fallen to 11 per cent, evidence of economic recovery acknowledged by international bodies.

He appealed to Pakistanis abroad, calling them proud ambassadors of their motherland and urging continued dedication to national development.

PM expressed solidarity with the people of Kashmir, whose valley has turned red with innocent blood, and declared Pakistan’s firm support until justice prevails for Palestinians and Kashmiris.

He reminded all citizens of the devastation of terrorism, which has claimed 90,000 lives including members of the armed forces and civilians. He vowed that new rifts will not be permitted and reaffirmed the right to peaceful protest — not to violence or obstruction.

The prime minister unveiled a digital display memorial entitled “Battle for Truth”. He described the symbolic five niches representing core elements of national defence: an Army niche, an Air Force niche, a Navy niche, a Cyber niche and a Space niche.

A formal ceremony is under way at Jinnah Sports Stadium in Islamabad to mark Pakistan’s 78th Independence Day and the success of the "Marka-e-Haq".

President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Gen Syed Asim Munir were attending as guests of honour, alongside senior civilian and military leadership.

According to details, federal ministers, members of parliament and ambassadors from friendly nations are also present. Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari, and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, are in attendance.

Troops from the Pakistan Army, SSG Commandos, Navy, Pakistan Air Force, Punjab Rangers, and FC Khyber Pakhtunkhwa performed a ceremonial march past. Fighter aircraft from the Pakistan Air Force presented a salute to the President, drawing chants of “Long live Pakistan” from the crowd.

Military contingents from Azerbaijan and Turkiye also participated, delivering impressive march past displays. A combined military band comprising members of all three armed forces performed during the ceremony.

Also present were the Chairman of the Senate, the Speaker of the National Assembly, the Deputy Prime Minister, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, IPP President Abdul Aleem Khan, and a large number of citizens.

During the ceremony, attendees stood to salute the national flag, and the national anthem was formally presented. March pasts were performed by the colour party, the Pakistan Army, Navy, Air Force, Punjab Rangers, and FC Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as well as units from the armed forces of Türkiye and Azerbaijan.

The event commemorated the nation’s freedom and celebrated what officials referred to as a “great victory in the "Marka-e-Haq".