Nation observes Defence and Martyrs Day

Defence and Martyrs Day was observed across the country on Sunday with the nation paying tribute to martyrs and Ghazis and reaffirming its commitment to defending Pakistan's sovereignty, territorial integrity and national interests against all threats.

The day marked the events of September 6, 1965, when Indian forces crossed the international border under the cover of darkness to attack Pakistan, but the nation foiled the enemy's nefarious designs.

The day began with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salutes in the provincial capitals. Special prayers were offered after Fajr in mosques for the progress and prosperity of the country and the independence of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in separate messages, paid heartfelt tribute to the martyrs and veterans of the Armed Forces, saying September 6 reminds the nation that unity in defence of freedom, sovereignty and the homeland can defeat any challenge.

President Zardari said the unity and spirit of faith demonstrated by the Armed Forces and the Pakistani nation on September 6, 1965, remained a manifestation of the country's collective strength. He said the international community must recognise that lasting peace in South Asia could not be achieved without resolving the Kashmir issue.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the government would continue taking resolute measures to strengthen Pakistan's security, sovereignty and defence while simultaneously advancing economic development, political stability and public welfare.

Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir, Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Air Chief Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and Commander National Strategic Command General Syed Aamer Raza also paid profound tribute to the martyrs and veterans of the Armed Forces.