The PMO says the day will be observed with dignity and respect through simple flag hoisting ceremonies.
The federal government has canceled the Pakistan Day parade scheduled for March 23 due to the ongoing oil crisis and austerity measures announced following tensions in the Middle East, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said on Tuesday.
“In light of the ongoing Gulf oil crisis and the austerity measures announced by the government, it has been decided that the Pakistan Day parade scheduled for March 23 and all associated ceremonies will not take place,” the PMO statement read.
The decision was made in the wake of the recent crisis caused by disruptions in oil supplies following the war between the United States, Israel and Iran, which led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Last week, to address the situation, Prime Minister Shehbaz announced a four-day work week and a work-from-home policy as part of sweeping austerity measures.
The PMO statement added that the day will be observed with dignity and respect through simple flag hoisting ceremonies. The move is aimed at ensuring that the nation’s commitment to the ideals of Pakistan Day, its resilience and its unwavering determination are maintained, while maintaining the broader policy of austerity.
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“All ministries, divisions and departments must observe the occasion with simplicity and dignity, so that despite the limited ceremonies, the importance of the day and its true message remain preserved,” he added.
Pakistan Day, celebrated annually on March 23, commemorates the adoption of the Lahore Resolution in 1940 and is traditionally marked by a large military parade in Islamabad attended by the country’s political and military leaders.
Earlier in the day, during a meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the Oil Minister to further improve the supply chain for oil imports and instructed all relevant institutions to remain prepared to take emergency measures until the regional situation improves.
In the wake of the recent energy crisis, the government has decided to carry out a daily review of oil reserves to closely monitor the energy situation. Pakistan currently has enough reserves of crude oil for 11 days, diesel for 21 days, gasoline for 27 days, LPG for nine days and jet fuel (JP-1) for 14 days, the Petroleum Secretary informed the Senate Standing Committee on Petroleum on Monday.
