Pakistan marks Defence and Martyrs Day with national tributes

Pakistan is observing Defence and Martyrs Day to honor the sacrifices made by the armed forces and civilians during the 1965 war. The commemorations include 31-gun salutes in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes in provincial capitals, alongside special prayers for national security and the rights of the people in Kashmir.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued separate messages paying tribute to the martyrs and veterans. President Zardari emphasized that national strength stems from unity and noted that lasting peace in South Asia requires a resolution to the Kashmir dispute. Prime Minister Sharif reaffirmed the government's commitment to strengthening national defense alongside economic development and political stability.

The military leadership, including Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, reaffirmed the armed forces' readiness to defend Pakistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated that while Pakistan seeks regional peace and coexistence, any aggression would be met with a ‘swift and decisive response.’

Regional leaders, including Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, also participated in the tributes, highlighting the strategic importance of various regions and the maritime front in national defense.