ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is observing Defence and Martyrs Day today to honour the sacrifices of the country’s martyrs and veterans and reaffirm the national commitment to defending the homeland against all threats.
The day commemorates September 6, 1965, when Indian forces crossed the international border under the cover of darkness in an attack on Pakistan. The country’s armed forces and people responded by thwarting the offensive, according to official accounts.
The day began with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in provincial capitals.
Special prayers were also offered at mosques following Fajr prayers for the country’s progress, prosperity and security, as well as for the freedom and rights of the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
President, PM honour martyrs
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif separately paid tribute to the martyrs and veterans of Pakistan’s Armed Forces on the occasion.
In their messages, both leaders said September 6 serves as a reminder of the strength that emerges when the nation remains united in defence of its freedom, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
President Zardari said the spirit of unity, faith and sacrifice displayed by the armed forces and nation during the 1965 war remained a symbol of Pakistan’s collective strength.
He also stressed that lasting peace in South Asia would remain elusive without resolving the Kashmir dispute in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
Prime Minister Shehbaz said the government would continue taking firm measures to strengthen Pakistan’s defence, security and sovereignty while pursuing economic growth, political stability and public welfare.
Armed forces pay tribute to fallen heroes
Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and Commander National Strategic Command General Syed Aamer Raza also paid tribute to the martyrs and veterans of the armed forces.
They acknowledged the sacrifices made by military personnel in defence of the country and reaffirmed the resolve to protect Pakistan’s sovereignty and national interests.
