Kakar stresses unity with armed forces

Commemorating Defence Day and Martyrs Day on Wednesday, Interim Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir and President Dr Arif Alvi paid tribute to valiant soldiers of the armed forces.

State media reported that Prime Minister Kakar laid a dignified floral wreath at the Pakistan Monument, dedicated to the Yadgar-e-Shuhada (Martyrs' Monument), in honor of the courageous soldiers who have sacrificed their lives for their country. This solemn gesture aimed to "pay homage and tribute" to these brave heroes of the nation.

In his heartfelt message on this significant occasion, Prime Minister Kakar conveyed the nation's unwavering support to Pakistan's armed forces in their mission to defeat those harboring "evil designs" against the integrity and prosperity of the nation. He emphasized the indomitable spirit and sacrifice of the martyrs, stating, "Our martyrs who embraced martyrdom for the sake of their people and the country can never be forgotten and will always remain in our hearts."

Kakar pointed out the profound reverence given to martyrs in the Holy Quran and spoke of the unique moment when soldiers meet immortality in the face of death.

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President Alvi, in a statement made on this day of remembrance, also paid tribute to the sacrifices made by the armed forces. He reflected on the historic significance of the 1965 war, highlighting the extraordinary courage, indomitable spirit, and unwavering national resolve displayed by the Pakistani nation and its armed forces.

Dr. Alvi underscored the war as a symbol of preparedness, professionalism, patriotism, and sacrifice.

President Alvi celebrated the heroic efforts of "our ghazis" during the 1965 war and acknowledged the armed forces' consistent display of courage and commitment in the two-decade-long war against terrorism. He proudly stated, "Our successes in this asymmetrical war are [a] testimony to our armed forces’ capacity to evolve into a unique force having the ability to match the modern-day combat requirements."

He reiterated Pakistan's dedication to peace and peaceful coexistence, emphasizing the importance of resolving the Kashmir dispute in accordance with UN Security Council Resolutions for regional peace and development. The president extended Pakistan's unwavering moral and diplomatic support to the Kashmiri people's rightful struggle for self-determination.

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COAS Gen Munir issued a statement lauding the remarkable efforts of the armed forces during the 1965 war. He underscored the profound sense of national unity and solidarity that prevailed during that time, emphasizing how they successfully thwarted the enemy's aggression. Gen Munir emphasized the prominent position held by the Pakistan Army on the global stage, attributing it to discipline and high professional standards.

He highlighted faith, piety, and the spirit of Jihad for the sake of Allah as defining characteristics of the Pakistan Army, emphasizing the unwavering commitment of every officer and soldier to prioritize the defense of the country above all else.

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Gen Munir acknowledged that some elements had attempted to strain the relationship between the people and the army, but these efforts had failed, as the armed forces' resolute fight against terrorism serves as a testament to their unwavering commitment to Pakistan's security and well-being. He further emphasized the symbiotic relationship between a strong economy and a strong defense, stressing the importance of mutual cooperation to propel Pakistan towards economic development.

With additional input from APP