The nation celebrates 51st Defense of Pakistan Day Tuesday (today) with national zeal and fervour to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country and pay homage to martyrs over their sacrifices for the motherland.
The day started with special prayers in mosques for the progress and prosperity of the nation. A 31-gun salute at the federal capital and 21-gun salute at provincial capitals was held earlier today.
Fateha and Quran Khawani was also held for those who laid down their lives to serve the nation, opting to embrace the supreme sacrifice.
On September 6, 1965, Pakistan’s valiant armed forces and the entire nation stood united to foil the nefarious designs of the enemy who had dared cast an evil eye on the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country.
Local social, political, religious and civil society organisations laid down floral wreathes on the graves of the martyrs in the local graveyard, besides, saluting them with cannons.
The main function to highlight the significance of the day was held at the lawns of General Headquarters (GHQ), where army chief General Raheel Sharif addressed the guests inclusive of next of kin of ‘Shuhda’, besides ‘Ghazis’.
People from all walks of life were also invited to the function.
In Sialkot, the main Hilal-e-Istaqlal hoisting ceremony was held at historical Sialkot Fort under the auspices of Tehsil Municipal Administration (TMA).
Pak Army officials and public paid tribute to the Shuhada and lay the floral wreaths at their graves in Sialkot, Daska and Chawinda during special ceremonies. Chawinda has a great significant role in 1965 War, as it is called the graveyard of the invading tanks of the enemy (India).
Defence experts say, “Compared to 1965, Pakistan today has emerged as a more vibrant country with conventional and non-conventional weapons.”
A change of guards ceremony was held at the mausoleum of Allama Iqbal in Lahore on Tuesday morning whereas another change of guards ceremony held on 09.00 is at Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi.
GOC Major General Fida Hussain laid a floral wreath and offered Fateha at the grave of Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed in Lahore.
A Change of Guard ceremony took place at the Mazar of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Karachi. A smartly turned out contingent of PAF Academy Risalpur, including six female cadets, took control charge of guards responsibility.
In Malir, a parade was held to memorise the zeal and valour of 1965 war officers.
-President Mamnoon Hussain’s message-
President Mamnoon Hussain in his message on the Defence Day stated that the Pakistan Army and the Pakistani nation bravely defended the country against the enemies.
The president added that the security situation in the country has improved after launching of Operation Zarb-e-Azb. He stated that the nation pays tribute to the valiant armed forces of Pakistan.
-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s message-
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, in his Defence Day message, has said that the valiant Pakistani forces gave a clear message to the enemies of Pakistan on 6th September 1965.
PM Sharif said that Pakistan has achieved self-reliance in the manufacturing of advanced weapons whereas the country’s nuclear strength is the highlight of the country’s strong defence.
The prime minister stated, “We do not want to join the arms race in the region, however, will continue to ensure balance in the region.”
“We have a clear stance on Kashmir and believe that the solution to this issue only lies in the implementation of the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council and in accordance with the aspirations of Kashmiri people,” PM stated in his message.
