Armed forces, President and PM extend respect

RECORDER REPORT

ISLAMABAD – Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, Chief of the Army Staff & Chief of Defence Forces, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, NI, NI (M), T Bt, Chief of the Naval Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, NI (M), HJ, Chief of the Air Staff, General Syed Aamer Raza, NI (M), S Bt, Commander National Strategic Command and the Armed Forces of Pakistan pay profound tribute to the Shuhada of Pakistan and extend their deepest respect and gratitude to the Ghazis and the families of martyrs on the occasion of the 61st Defence and Martyrs’ Day.

The 6th of September remains an enduring symbol of national unity, courage and resolve, reminding us how the Pakistani nation stood as one in defence of the motherland during the War of 1965, according to a statement of ISPR.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have also paid heartfelt tribute to the martyrs and veterans of Pakistan’s Armed Forces on the occasion of Defence and Martyrs Day.

In separate messages issued on the eve of Defence Day, the two leaders also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and stability.

They said 6th September reminds us that when a nation stands united in defence of its freedom, sovereignty and homeland, no power can defeat its resolve.

President Asif Ali Zardari said the unity and spirit of faith demonstrated by our Armed Forces and the Pakistani nation on 6th September, 1965 remain a manifestation of our collective strength.

He said international community must recognise that lasting peace in South Asia cannot be achieved without resolution of the Kashmir issue as per UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the people of Kashmir.

In his message, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the Government will continue to take resolute measures to strengthen Pakistan’s security, sovereignty and defence, while simultaneously advancing economic development, political stability and public welfare.

The day began with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salutes in provincial capitals. Special prayers were offered after Fajr for the progress, prosperity and security of Pakistan, as well as the freedom of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.