Islamabad is the capital city of what country?

Pakistan.

Islamabad is the capital city of Pakistan, serving as the political and administrative heart of the country since it was officially designated as the capital in the 1960s. Before Islamabad, Karachi was the capital of Pakistan. The decision to move the capital was based on strategic, political, and geographical considerations, with the aim of having a centrally located capital that could better symbolize the unity of the country and be less vulnerable to attacks from the sea. Islamabad’s creation was part of a well-thought-out plan to have a purpose-built capital that could reflect the aspirations and ideals of a modern Pakistan.

Situated within the Islamabad Capital Territory, the city is nestled against the backdrop of the Margalla Hills at the northern edge of the Potohar Plateau. This location provides Islamabad with a beautiful landscape, marked by lush greenery and a temperate climate, which contrasts sharply with many other regions of Pakistan known for their arid climates and desert landscapes. The city’s master plan was designed by the Greek architect Constantinos Apostolou Doxiadis, emphasizing open spaces, greenery, and sectors or zones for diplomatic, residential, and commercial purposes, making it one of the most organized and well-planned cities in South Asia.

Islamabad is unique in its composition and structure, characterized by its wide streets, well-organized layout, and modern architecture. The city houses numerous parks and forests, including the Margalla Hills National Park and Shakarparian Park. It is also a cultural hub, home to several museums like the Pakistan Museum of Natural History and the Lok Virsa Museum, which showcase the country’s rich heritage and diverse cultures.

As the seat of the Government of Pakistan, Islamabad hosts the Supreme Court of Pakistan, the Parliament of Pakistan, and the Presidential Palace, making it the center for political and diplomatic activities in the country. The city also hosts foreign embassies and international organizations, further establishing its status as a pivotal point of national and international affairs.

Islamabad’s strategic importance is enhanced by its educational institutions, research centers, and universities, including the Quaid-e-Azam University and the National University of Sciences and Technology, which contribute to its reputation as a center for higher education and research in the region. This combination of political significance, planned urban development, educational institutions, and cultural richness makes Islamabad not only the capital city of Pakistan but also a symbol of the country’s progress and aspirations.