Pakistan Day military parade, which was previously postponed due to inclement weather on March 23, is currently being held in Islamabad at Parade Ground near the Shakarparian hills.
President of Pakistan, Arif Alvi, has graced his presence at the monumental event as a chief guest. He is also joined by Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Nadeem Raza, Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu and Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Amjad Khan Niazi.
Prime Minister Imran Khan has not attended the ceremony because of his COVID-19 diagnosis.
As per the coronavirus SOPs, few spectators are allowed to see the parade.
‘We are fully capable to defend our integrity’
While addressing the nation, Arif Alvi in his speech declared that Pakistan is fully equipped to defend its territorial integrity and sovereignty, categorically stating that any misadventure will receive a befitting response.
"We will defend our independence at all costs," he added.
He said peaceful coexistence is the cornerstone of Pakistan's foreign policy. He said the situation warrants that the leadership of South Asia reject the politics of hate, prejudice and religious extremism to guide the region towards prosperity.
"Pakistan wants to move forward with good intent and peace, but our desire for peace should not be construed as our weakness," he said.
At the end of his speech, the President also touched on the Kashmir issue. "The entire nation stands by their Kashmiri brothers and sisters in this hour of trial."
