KARACHI, MAR 23, (DNA) – The nation is celebrating the 77th Pakistan Day today with a renewed pledge to make the country stronger by eliminating terrorism and strengthen national security and solidarity.

The day dawned with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salutes in provincial capitals. Special prayers will be offered in mosques for the integrity and solidarity of the country.

Main feature of the day is the military parade at Parade Avenue near the landmark Shakarparian hills in Islamabad where armed forces will conduct march past and fighter jets will present aerobatic maneuvers.

Various political, social, religious, and literary organisations will arrange functions to highlight the importance of the Pakistan Resolution that paved the way for the creation of an independent homeland for the Muslims of the Indian sub-continent.

President Mamnoon Hussain is the chief guest of the ceremony. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Mohammad Zakaullah and Defence Minister Khawaja Asif are among other dignitaries witnessing the parade.

Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman led the flypast of the Pakistan Air Force.