President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif honored the Ghazis and Shuhada for their significant sacrifices and courage in defending the country against external threats.

In a message marking Pakistan's Defence and Martyrs’ Day, President Zardari emphasized that the armed forces are vigilant and always ready to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, as well as combat terrorism effectively.

He highlighted that Pakistan’s military is equipped with modern defense capabilities and has the skills and resolve to protect the nation from all challenges.

"This day reflects our nation's strong commitment to defending its sovereignty," Zardari remarked, paying tribute to the brave soldiers who thwarted the enemy’s attempts to harm Pakistan.

He reiterated Pakistan’s desire for peace and stability in the region and its dedication to peaceful coexistence with neighboring countries. However, he stressed that lasting peace hinges on resolving the Kashmir issue, where the people of Kashmir continue to suffer under India’s illegal occupation. The revocation of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir's autonomous status has only worsened the situation, and India must comply with the UN Security Council’s resolutions on Kashmir’s right to self-determination, he noted.

President Zardari also pointed out that Pakistan faces multiple security challenges, with hostile nations supporting anti-Pakistan elements to conduct terror attacks. He affirmed that Pakistan’s armed forces and law enforcement agencies are prepared to defeat these threats, and the nation stands united in support of them to eliminate terrorism.

He concluded by acknowledging the patriotism, determination, and courage of the country’s soldiers, reaffirming the nation’s unwavering support for its armed forces in fulfilling their duty to protect Pakistan.

Significant day in the history of Pakistan: PM Shehbaz

In his separate message, PM Shehbaz said Pakistan commemorates a pivotal moment in its history, Defence and Martyrs Day, honoring the unwavering courage and ultimate sacrifices of its brave armed forces who repelled India’s aggression in 1965.

“Fifty-nine years on, the Armed Forces of Pakistan unceasingly show the same ever-ready state of alertness, professional excellence and war preparedness while up-keeping the ‘Spirit of September’ that has become a symbol of resistance and resilience,” the PM added.

He said the September 6 marks a significant day in the history of Pakistan. “Every year on this day, the Pakistani nation observes “Defence & Martyrs Day” in a befitting manner. Together we pay rich tributes to the valiant sons of soil and brave heroes of our armed forces who fearlessly fought, and defeated India that attacked our motherland across the international border on 6 September 1965,” he added.

Despite their numerical advantage, the prime minister said the enemy designs were thwarted by the valiant armed forces and were handed an unforgettable defeat, on all fronts.

“The courage and dedication of our soldiers coupled with preparedness of the armed forces ensure that we live in a free and sovereign country. We salute the families of Shuhada, whose immense resilience and strength continues to inspire us to commit to the defence of the country,” he said adding “Our armed forces, equipped with modern day combat capability, are constantly enhancing their prowess to defend our territorial integrity and sovereign identity”.

He stressed that the government believes in dialogue over conflict and in cooperation over confrontation. “Our aim is to create an environment where all nations can prosper, and address issues like poverty, health, and education.”

Unfortunately, he said non-resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute is hampering the pace of positive development in the region. Kashmir is the unfinished agenda of partition that needs immediate settlement as per the aspirations of the people of Kashmir and according to the relevant UN Security Council resolutions through an impartial plebiscite. At the same time, roots of terrorism stemming from our neighbors need to be curbed in our common interest.

“I bring to you a message of hope and resolve on this day. Remember, our past is a testament to our ability to overcome adversity. Each time, we have emerged stronger, battle-hardened. On this day, we must draw upon the same spirit of resilience that has always defined us. Azm-e-Istehkam under revised National Action Plan is meant to root out both physical and digital terrorism, once and for all. It is important that we join hands and pave a way to prosperous Pakistan,” the prime minister added.

As regards, situation in Palestine, the prime minister said Pakistan stands firmly with the people of Palestine. “We will continue to raise the issue on all global platforms. The Palestinian people have shown incredible courage in their long struggle against Israeli occupation. We urge the international community to ensure the protection of Palestinian Citizens and stop genocide of innocent Muslims in Gaza,” he added.

He prayed to Allah Almighty to bless the souls of the martyrs and provide strength and patience to the families. “Let’s draw inspiration from them to defend and build Pakistan with the same Spirit of September, and touch the heights of glory, God willing.”