Pakistan on Sunday commemorated its Independence Day with national zeal and fervour.

The day dawned with 31 gun salute in the federal and 21 gun salute in the provincial capitals, Radio Pakistan reported.

The main ceremony of Independence Day was held at the Convention Centre in Islamabad where President Mamnoon Hussain along with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif hoisted the national flag.

Pakistan once again raised the Kashmir issue while celebrating its 70th Independence Day with Mr. Hussain saying the country will continue to support Kashmiris in their bid for the right to self-determination.

Mr. Hussain mostly talked about internal challenges and importance of eliminating militancy.

He, however, also touched upon the Kashmir issue and asked the people that they should not forget the people of Kashmir on the Independence Day.

“Pakistan cannot forget Kashmiris and would continue to support them to get right of self-determination in light of the UN resolution,” he said.

The President urged the people to shun differences and work hard for the prosperity of the country.

Earlier, Mr. Hussain unfurled the national flag to mark the 70th Independence Day.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Cabinet Ministers and Service Chiefs attended the ceremony that took place amid tight security.

With security on high alert, mobile phone service was suspended in about 40 cities. Internet services were also partially suspended.

Flag hoisting ceremonies were also held at the provincial capitals and district headquarters besides other important national institutions.

Meanwhile, all major public and private buildings, roads and avenues were decorated with illuminations, national flags, portraits of the national leaders and banners.

In Lahore, a Change of Guard ceremony was held at Mazar-e-Iqbal earlier in the morning, Radio Pakistan reported.

A contingent of the Pakistan Army took charge as guards of the Mazaar from Punjab Rangers.

Independence Day celebrations officially began with fireworks at parade ground Shakarparian in Islamabad after midnight.

The ground and the surrounding areas were lit with thousands of colourful fireworks.

Punjab IT Board draped an exclusive 100ft long and 120ft wide national flag on Arfa Software Technology Park, the tallest building in Lahore, the Nation reports.