ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari on Sunday paid tribute to Pakistan’s martyrs and veterans on Defence and Martyrs’ Day, reaffirming the country’s commitment to national security, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In separate messages issued on September 6, the two leaders recalled Pakistan’s defence during the 1965 war and linked its legacy to what they described as the recent success of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos and Marka-e-Haq.
Shehbaz described September 6 as a significant chapter in Pakistan’s history, saying the armed forces and nation had demonstrated unity and resolve during the 1965 war.
He said Pakistan’s armed forces had confronted the enemy despite what he described as numerical superiority and undeclared aggression.
Zardari also paid tribute to the personnel who sacrificed their lives during the 1965 war, saying September 6 remained an important day in Pakistan’s national history.
Leaders link 1965 war to recent military operation
The prime minister said the armed forces’ performance during Marka-e-Haq reflected the spirit of September 6, crediting the military leadership with what he described as a strong response to Pakistan’s adversary.
He said the success of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos had added another chapter to Pakistan’s military history.
Zardari similarly said the operation reflected the resolve demonstrated by the armed forces and the public during the 1965 war.
Both leaders praised the Pakistan Army, Pakistan Air Force and Pakistan Navy for their role in national defence.
PM warns against security threats
Shehbaz said Pakistan faced security challenges from what he described as hostile forces and militant groups.
He said the country required greater national unity to counter threats and accused Pakistan’s adversaries of attempting to destabilise the country through hybrid warfare.
Zardari said there would be no compromise on Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national security.
He also called for continued vigilance and preparedness by the armed forces in response to conventional and unconventional security threats.
Economic stability also vital, says PM
Shehbaz said Pakistan’s national strength depended not only on defence capabilities but also on economic development, political stability and public welfare.
He identified the eradication of poverty, ignorance and backwardness as key national challenges and said the government would continue efforts to strengthen the economy and improve public welfare.
Zardari also stressed the importance of economic stability, political tolerance, education, development and national unity alongside a strong defence system.
Pakistan reiterates regional peace stance
The prime minister said Pakistan would continue supporting regional and international peace through dialogue and cooperation.
He described Pakistan as a responsible state contributing to regional security and highlighted the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement as part of the country’s expanding security partnerships.
Zardari similarly said Pakistan remained committed to peace, dialogue and mutual respect while strengthening regional security cooperation.
Leaders reiterate Kashmir position
Both leaders said the Kashmir dispute remained central to lasting peace in South Asia.
Shehbaz called for the resolution of the Kashmir issue in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
He also criticised India’s position on the dispute, saying its policies remained an obstacle to lasting regional peace.
Zardari accused India of supporting militant activity in Pakistan and called for an end to what he described as the use of proxies against the country.
Defence Day ceremony held at Mazar-e-Quaid
A change of guards ceremony was held at Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi to mark Defence and Martyrs’ Day.
Cadets from the Pakistan Air Force took over guard duties at the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.
Air Vice Marshal Hassan Faisal, Air Commandant of PAF Academy Asghar Khan, attended the ceremony as chief guest.