KARACHI, March 23: Pakistan Day was observed in the Sindh metropolis on Tuesday with traditional zeal and fervour and a resolve to make the country a strong, progressive, enlightened and moderate Muslim state.

The day dawned with a 21-gun salute in the provincial capital and special prayers were offered in mosques for the country's progress and solidarity. The change-of-guards ceremony was held at the Quaid's mausoleum followed by wreath-laying by representatives of the Pakistan Army, Pakistan Navy and Pakistan Air Force.

Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ibad, Sindh Chief Minister Sardar Ali Mohammad Khan Mahar and provincial cabinet members visited the mazar in the morning to pay homage to the Father of the Nation Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad ALi Jinnah. They also offered fateha. They also visited the mazars of Pakistan's first prime minister late Liaquat Ali Khan and Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah.

Coordinator of the united PML in Sindh Senator Nisar A. Memon led a workers' rally at the mazar to pay homage to the founder of Pakistan. He also offered fateha.

City Nazim Naimatullah Khan and other senior officials also laid floral wreaths on behalf of Karachiites and offered fateha. A large number of school children, workers of social organisations visited mazar to pay homage to Father of the Nation.

Pakistani flag was hoisted on principal public and private buildings. Various organisations, town municipal administrations and schools held seminars and functions in this regard. -APP