In Pakistan, a Birthday Marred by Violence

Nation turns 60 amid bomb attacks and political upheaval
By Jason Farago,  Newser Staff
Posted Aug 14, 2007 6:26 AM CDT
In Pakistan, a Birthday Marred by Violence
Pakistani girls wave national flags at a flag hoisting ceremony to mark the 60th anniversary of independence from British rule, in Islamabad, Pakistan, Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2007. Pakistan celebrates itts independence amid a political crisis facing the country's U. S. -allied president and surging militant...   (Associated Press)

Pakistan celebrates the 60th anniversary of its independence today at a moment plagued by violence and shadowed by political uncertainty, the Independent writes. A roadside bomb killed four civilians yesterday near the border with Afghanistan, where the Taliban is allegedly regrouping. Attacks have multiplied since July from tribal areas to Islamabad.

Concerts and fireworks have been scheduled today to celebrate Pakistan's establishment following the partition of India, but the mood remains tense. Economic growth has slowed, dogged by unrest. Last week Gen. Pervez Musharraf nearly imposed a state of emergency in a desperate attempt to shore up power and cancel upcoming elections. (More Pakistan stories.)

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