Nation celebrates Defence Day, honours martyrs with patriotic zeal

Pakistan honours the bravery of its 1965 war soldiers, celebrating unity and reaffirming its stance on Kashmir.

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Pakistan is marking Defence and Martyrs Day with great patriotic enthusiasm to honour its martyrs and veterans and to renew its pledge to defend the country from all threats.

The day began with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and a 21-gun salute in provincial capitals.

Special prayers were held in mosques for the country's progress and prosperity, as well as for the liberation of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

At the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi, a contingent of the Pakistan Air Force took over ceremonial guard duties.

The significance of this day stems from the 1965 war when Indian forces launched a surprise attack, crossing the international border at night. Pakistan’s armed forces successfully defended the country.

The day is a reminder of the unity and strength displayed during that time, adhering to Quaid’s principles of Faith, Unity, and Discipline.

The war saw key battles at border regions like Lahore, Sialkot, and Sindh.

Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, in his special message for Defence Day, said September 6 holds great significance in Pakistan's national and military history as a symbol of the country's defence.

General Asim highlighted that, on this day, Pakistan’s army, navy, and air force, alongside the nation, thwarted the ambitions of a much larger enemy.

The unity and determination demonstrated during the 1965 war remain a proud legacy for both the armed forces and the country.

On Defence and Martyrs' Day, President Asif Ali Zardari in a message also honoured the sacrifices of our Ghazis and Shuhada.

He reaffirmed the nation's commitment to defend its sovereignty and supported the Armed Forces in their readiness to respond to any threats.