PM, President Honour Martyrs, Renew National Resolve on Defence Day

On Defence and Martyrs Day, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to martyrs, veterans and their families on Sunday 6 September. And reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to national unity, sovereignty, security and peace.

In separate messages, both leaders described September 6 as an important chapter in Pakistan’s history and remembered the courage and sacrifices of the Armed Forces and nation during the 1965 war. Shehbaz said the professionalism and preparedness of Pakistan’s Armed Forces helped defeat the enemy’s designs, while Zardari said the sacrifices of the martyrs remained a source of courage and inspiration for future generations.

Both leaders also linked the spirit of the 1965 war with Marka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyanum Marsoos. Shehbaz said the recent military success had added another chapter to Pakistan’s history, while Zardari described it as a continuation of the patriotism and courage associated with September 6.

The leaders stressed that Pakistan’s current challenges require greater national unity and solidarity. They also highlighted the importance of economic stability, political tolerance, education and development alongside a strong defence.

Shehbaz indorsed Pakistan’s pledge to regional amity over exchange of ideas and cooperation, whereas Zardari worried that there could be no concession on the country’s power and security. Both leaders also called for a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute.

For the moment, a change of guards ceremony was held at Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi. PAF cadets implicit guard duties at the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah as part of Defence Day commemorations.

Both leaders prayed for the elevation of the martyrs’ ranks and for peace, stability and prosperity in Pakistan.