Independence Day ceremony: Maryam announces establishment of Marka-e-Haq monument, park, museum

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Thursday announced the establishment of a Marka-e-Haq monument, park and museum to commemorate the historic Battle for Truth.

The project was formally unveiled at a special ceremony held at the Expo Centre, where a veteran musicians’ orchestra opened the event with soulful national songs. Renowned singer Sahir Ali Bagga’s stirring performance further lifted the patriotic spirit, captivating the audience.

The gathering also witnessed the screening of a special musical film on the Battle for Truth, alongside a documentary outlining the design, vision and significance of the upcoming monument, museum and park.

Diplomats from friendly nations, provincial ministers and senior military and civil officials attended the event.

Separately, in her Independence Day message, CM Maryam Nawaz congratulated the nation on Pakistan’s 78th Independence anniversary, saying: “May Pakistan live forever! Alhamdulillah, we thank Allah Almighty for blessing us with a beloved homeland and the dignity of living in freedom.”

She expressed pride in Pakistan being the first nuclear power of the Islamic world and gratitude for victory in the Battle for Truth. Calling Pakistan a “shining lamp whose light brightens the whole world”, she underscored that without it, the nation’s identity and respect would be diminished.

Paying tribute to Allama Iqbal, Quaid-e-Azam, their companions and the sacrifices of the martyrs, she urged parents to share stories of the freedom struggle with their children. She reminded citizens that August 14 should not only be celebrated but also serve as a day to renew the pledge of loyalty to the homeland. Reaffirming her commitment to the country’s progress, CM Maryam said Pakistan was standing tall among nations and moving towards economic prosperity. She vowed to make the country stronger and greater on the global stage.