ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have paid tribute to the martyrs, veterans and families of the armed forces on Defence and Martyrs Day, saying their sacrifices remain a lasting symbol of courage, patriotism and national resolve.
In his message marking the day, President Zardari said the nation owed a lasting debt of gratitude to those who sacrificed their lives in the defence of the country, as well as to veterans and the families of fallen personnel.
He said the sacrifices of the martyrs had become an enduring part of national history and would continue to inspire future generations.
President Zardari Recalls Significance of September 6
The president described September 6 as an important date in the country’s history, recalling the sacrifices made to protect freedom, sovereignty and national security.
He said Defence and Martyrs Day provides an opportunity to remember the military personnel who demonstrated courage, determination and commitment during the 1965 war.
According to the president, the unity displayed by the armed forces and the nation on September 6, 1965, demonstrated the strength that comes when people stand together to defend their homeland.
He stressed that national unity and collective determination remain powerful safeguards of a country’s independence and sovereignty.
PM Shehbaz Pays Tribute to Armed Forces
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also honoured the martyrs, veterans and their families, describing September 6 as a significant chapter in national history.
He said the day recalls the unity, determination and sacrifices demonstrated by the armed forces and the nation during the 1965 conflict.
The prime minister said the occasion provides an opportunity to acknowledge those who made sacrifices to protect the country’s security, sovereignty and independence.
He also praised the professionalism and preparedness of the armed forces during the 1965 war, saying they successfully confronted the challenges posed by the opposing side despite its numerical advantage.
PM Highlights Military Professionalism and National Unity
Shehbaz Sharif said the events of 1965 demonstrated both the courage and professionalism of the armed forces and the resilience and unity of the people.
He said the combined efforts of the military and the nation created a legacy that continues to hold an important place in national history.
Also Read: Pakistan Armed Forces Pay Tribute to Martyrs on Defence and Martyrs Day
The prime minister also referred to recent military developments, saying that during Marka-e-Haq, the armed forces responded to the country’s longstanding adversary under the professional leadership of Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu and Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf.
He said the nation remains proud of the Army, Air Force and Navy.
Operation Bunyanum Marsoos Cited as Military Milestone
The prime minister described the reported success of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos as another significant addition to military history.
According to Shehbaz Sharif, the operation demonstrated that the determination and spirit associated with September 6 continue to remain strong.
He said the challenges facing the country require greater unity and solidarity, while claiming that hostile forces, including the traditional adversary and groups referred to in his statement as Fitna al Khawarij and Fitna al Hindustan, continue to pursue what he described as hostile designs.
The prime minister said these forces were facing repeated and decisive setbacks.
