ISLAMABAD, March 25 (Xinhua) -- Pakistan on Thursday held the Pakistan Day military parade in the capital Islamabad with full zeal and fervor.
The military parade, conducted as per health guidelines to prevent and control COVID-19 at the Shakarparian hills, was scheduled to be held on March 23 to mark the 81st Pakistan Day but was postponed due to bad weather in the capital.
Pakistan Day, also known as the Pakistan Resolution Day or Republic Day, is celebrated annually on March 23 to mark the passing of the Lahore Resolution on March 23, 1940, which is a major milestone in the subcontinent's Muslim struggle for an independent state.
Pakistani President Arif Alvi was the chief guest on the occasion, who witnessed the parade along with service chiefs and foreign guests.
Addressing the parade, Alvi said Pakistan desires peace, security and development in the region and has also taken practical steps to achieve the objective.
"Peaceful coexistence is the cornerstone of Pakistan's foreign policy. The situation warrants that the leadership of South Asia rejects the politics of hate, prejudice and religious extremism to guide the region towards prosperity," Alvi said.
He said Pakistan wants to move forward with good intent and peace but Pakistan's desire for peace should not be construed as its weakness.
Troops from various units and formations of the armed forces including the army, navy and air force took part in the parade.
On the occasion, the Pakistani military displayed an inventory of modern weapons and arsenal, including tanks, jets, drones and other weapon systems. Cultural floats of the country's four provinces also gave color to the parade.
Fighter jets and military helicopters presented an air display over the parade ground, while paratroopers jumping out of airplanes was another highlight.
Thousands of people, including diplomats from several countries, witnessed the parade amid tight security in Islamabad and adjoining Rawalpindi.
To curb COVID-19, face masks and hand sanitizers were provided to all those who witnessed the parade. Enditem