Islamabad, 23 March 2022 (TDI): Military Parade was held on the occasion of Pakistan Day in Islamabad, today. This year’s parade was unique and held great significance because of two main reasons:
- This year Pakistan is celebrating its 75th anniversary or Diamond Jubilee of its independence.
- This year’s parade was also witnessed by the participants of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation Council of Foreign Ministers, that were in Islamabad for the meeting.
Civilian & Military Officials
The President of Pakistan Dr. Arif Alvi, the Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan graced the occasion with their presence. Not only that but the Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, the Chiefs of the Pak Army, Pak Navy (PN), and Pak Air Force (PAF) were also there.
Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Shah Mahmood Qureshi along with the other Foreign Ministers of member states of OIC was also present at the venue. It is relevant to mention here that the Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, was also there as he is in Islamabad as a Chief Guest at OIC CFM. All the Foreign Ministers were special guests today.
Parade Commencement
A 31-gun salute was given initially. Then after the arrival of the dignitaries, the National Anthem of Pakistan was played followed by the recitation of the Holy Quran.
PAF squadron comprised of recently inducted J-10C aircraft along with PN’s aircraft performed a flypast and the salute was presented to the President of Pakistan, Dr. Arif Alvi.
This was followed by the address of the President of Pakistan. He stressed that Pakistan must be taken to a height of glory as per the will of its founding fathers. He also stressed unity to combat the challenges confronting the nation.
The Marching Columns
The Marching Columns were multiple in number;
- Pak Army’s infantry regiments of Punjab
- Baloch Regiment
- Frontier Force
- Sindh Regiment
- Northern Light Infantry
- Frontier Corps
- Flag-Bearing Contingent
- Punjab Rangers
- Mujahid Regiment
- Pakistan Police Contingent
- Light Commando Battalion
- Special Services Group (SSG)
- Pakistan Navy
- Pakistan Air Force
- Lady Officers
- Pakistan Boy Scouts
- Pakistan Girl Guide
Military Contingents of other countries also graced the Parade venue with their presence and performance. The contingents of brother countries marched in the following sequence:
- Bahrain
- Uzbekistan
- Azerbaijan
- Turkey
- Saudi Arabia
After the marching columns, mechanized columns came and further displayed the defense equipment and capabilities. Radars, guns, missiles display added further splendor to the entire event.
The Aerobatics
The thrilling and daring flypasts then added color to the skies. The amazing aerial defense capabilities of Pakistan were displayed. Multiple maneuvers were performed e.g. Bomb Burst, low altitude maneuvers, etc.
The Fighter aircraft that were involved in the flypasts and formations included F-16, J-10C, JF-17 Thunder, Mirage, C-130, and P-3C Orion.
The paratroopers then came in and mesmerized the audience.
Traditional Floats
Last but not least traditional floats made their way to the parade ground. Organization of Islamic Cooperation Float was the first to come. It had the flag of OIC, Pakistan, and member states displayed on it.
Afterward, the floats displaying the culture of various provinces of Pakistan came and presented the vibrant and rich culture of the provinces in a brief yet impressive manner.
