ISLAMABAD: Defence and Martyrs Day is being observed today to pay rich tribute to martyrs and Ghazis and reaffirm resolve to defend the motherland against all threats. It was on this day in 1965 that the Indian forces crossed international border in the darkness of night to attack Pakistan but the nation foiled nefarious and evil designs of the enemy. The day dawned with 31-gun salute at the federal capital and 21-gun salute at provincial capitals.
Special prayers were offered in the mosques for the prosperity and progress of the nation, and independence of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) from the cruel clutches of India. Fateha and Quran Khawani are also being held for the martyrs.
President, Prime Minister Vows to Defend Country’s Sovereignty, Territorial Integrity
Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have expressed unwavering resolve to defend sovereignty and territorial integrity of the motherland against all threats.
In their separate messages on the occasion of Defence and Martyrs’ Day, the President and the Prime Minister said Pakistan’s armed forces are vigilant and ever-ready to respond to any challenge. In his message, Asif Ali Zardari paid rich homage to Ghazis and Shuhada, who rendered immense sacrifices and bravely defended the nation against external aggression. Asif Ali Zardari said Pakistan seeks peace and stability in the region and is committed to peaceful coexistence with all neighbours. However, enduring peace is only possible when suffering of the people of Kashmir is ended, the President said.
In his message, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also paid rich tributes to the valiant sons of soil and brave heroes of armed forces of the country, who bravely fought, and defeated India that attacked the motherland across the international border on this day in 1965. The PM said that Pakistan believes in talks over conflict and in cooperation over confrontation.
He said our aim is to create an atmosphere where all nations can prosper and address problems like poverty, education and health. Shehbaz Sharif said Kashmir is the unfinished agenda of partition that needs immediate settlement as per the UNSC resolutions.
CJCSC, Services Chiefs Pay Rich Tribute to Brave Soldiers of 1965 War
On the eve of Pakistan’s 59th Defence and Martyrs Day, the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Services Chiefs, and the Pakistan Armed Forces proudly commemorate the triumphant legacy of the 1965 War, a paradigm of the nation’s indomitable will and unyielding spirit, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated in a press release.
“This day serves as a poignant tribute to the valor, sacrifice, and heroism of our gallant soldiers who valiantly defended the motherland against formidable odds,” the ISPR stated.
Fifty-nine years ago, the Pakistan Armed Forces decisively thwarted the enemy’s malicious designs, securing a historic victory that will be etched in the annals of history forever. “The 1965 War was a beacon of hope, exemplifying the nation’s resilience and determination in the face of adversity,” the ISPR stated.
“We pay heartfelt tribute to the martyrs of Pakistan who have laid down their lives since 1947 in defence of Pakistan and especially those who have given ultimate sacrifices in fights and war against terrorism. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten,” the ISPR maintained.
“We also salute the veterans who fought valiantly, their bravery and selflessness will always be remembered,” the ISPR added.
The Pakistan Armed Forces reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to defend the country against all threats and challenges. “We along with Law Enforcement Agencies stand ready to defend our homeland with unwavering dedication and unrelenting passion, upholding the spirit of September 1965. We also pay rich tribute to the families of all our martyrs and veterans who have borne the brunt of their loved ones’ sacrifices with courage and resilience”.
“Let us come together to honour the memory of our martyrs and heroes on this Defence and Martyrs Day. May their sacrifices continue to inspire us to strive for a stronger, more prosperous, and more peaceful Pakistan,” ISPR stated.
