Islamabad, March 17 Pakistan announced on Tuesday that it would cancel the annual Pakistan Day military parade due to the ongoing situation in the Gulf and its subsequent economic and security implications.
The Pakistan Day parade is held on March 23 to commemorate the resolution passed by the All India Muslim League in 1940 during its meeting in Lahore, demanding a separate homeland for Muslims in India.
The Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said in a statement that, in light of the ongoing Gulf oil crisis and the consequent austerity measures announced by the government, it was decided that the Pakistan Day parade and associated ceremonial events would not be held on March 23.
"The day shall, however, be commemorated with dignity and reverence through a simple flag-raising ceremony at appropriate levels," the statement said.
This measure is being taken to ensure that the ideals of Pakistan Day remain aligned with the broader austerity framework, it said.
The Pakistani government announced a series of austerity measures last week to save fuel due to disruptions caused by the conflict in West Asia.
These included a 50 per cent cut in fuel allowance for official vehicles and a four-day work week. It was also decided that 50 per cent of staff in the public sector would work from home.