Shakeel 
Pakistan President Arif Alvi was congratulated by US President Joe Biden and Russian President Vladimir Putin on occasion of 81st Pakistan Day.
Pakistan is celebrating its 81st Pakistan Day with national spirit and zeal amid the Covid-19 pandemic crisis. It is observed each year on March 23 to commemorate passing of ‘Lahore Resolution’ on March 23, 1940. This eventually led to Pakistan creation seven years later on August 14, 1947.
On Monday, Russian Embassy in Pakistan tweeted, “Vladimir Putin, President of Russia, sent the congratulatory message on the occasion of a national holiday – the Pakistan Day to H.E. Dr. A. Alvi, President of Pakistan, and H.E. Mr. Imran Khan, Prime Minister of Pakistan.”
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Spokesperson of Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova had said earlier, “Russia and Pakistan maintain friendly relations, a regular political dialogue and interaction at international organizations. We send greetings to our Pakistani friends.”
In a letter to President Alvi, US President Joe Biden said, “We will continue cooperation for the establishment of peace in Afghanistan and meet common challenges including that of coronavirus and climate change.”
The celebrations on the day started with gun salutes and prayers at the mosque for prosperity and progress of Pakistan and complete curb of Covid-19. The traditional fervour was missing as parts of country are under partial lockdown as country is witnessing third wave of coronavirus infections. National Flag was hoisted at all federal buildings. A special song was also released by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) in relation to the day.
Due to inclement weather conditions and rain forecast, the traditional military parade has been postponed to March 25 in the capital. In Lahore, a change of guard ceremony was held at the mausoleum of Allama Iqbal. An investiture ceremony will be held at Aiwan-e-Sadar (President House) in the afternoon where President Dr Arif Alvi will grant awards and medals to various people for their contribution in different fields.
