Pakistan’s president, PM laud role of armed forces

Pakistan’s president, PM laud role of armed forces

September 07, 2016
Pakistani soldiers perform in a ceremony to celebrate the country’s Defense Day in Lahore, Pakistan, on Tuesday. — AFP
Pakistani soldiers perform in a ceremony to celebrate the country’s Defense Day in Lahore, Pakistan, on Tuesday. — AFP

ISLAMABAD — Pakistan celebrated its 51st Defense Day on Tuesday with renewed pledge to defend the country against all odds.

Pakistan marks the National Defense Day to commemorate the sacrifices of fallen heroes during the 1965 war with India. It is observed on Sept. 6 in memory of the sacrifices rendered by the Pakistani armed forces. The day commenced with special prayers for the country’s security, progress and development. In various cities of Pakistan, small and large events celebrating the event of 1965 were held.

In Karachi, a change of Guard ceremony took place at the Mazar-e-Quaid, where smartly turned out contingent of PAF Academy Risalpur, including six female cadets, took control charge of guards’ responsibility.

In Lahore, a contingent of Rangers presented guard of honor at the mausoleum of Allama Iqbal.

In national address, Pakistan President Mamnoon Hussain lauded the role and contribution of the country’s armed forces.

“I assure the nation that Pakistan’s defense is in safe and strong hands of our formidable armed forces. Our army, navy and air force are equipped with professional proficiency that matches the modern-day combat requirements,” he said.

Hussain also commended the indigenous production of state-of-the-art defense technology. “Our nuclear capability and modern weaponry are an attestation of our commitment to the defense of our country. I am proud of the professionalism and patriotism of the armed forces, he added.

On ongoing war on terror, the Pakistani president said that “our armed forces, together with other law enforcement agencies, are playing an unforgettable role in maintaining law and order within the country. The successful Zarb-e-Azb operation has improved the security situation in the country for which the nation eulogizes and pays tribute to the brave and valiant armed forces.”

Commemorating that day, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif said on Tuesday that Pakistan’s defense capabilities meet the contemporary needs as its strong defense has ensured peace in South Asia.

“We do not want to join the arms race in the region, however, will continue to maintain a strategic balance in the region,” Sharif said in his message .

Sharif said the country’s defense capability was in fact reflective of the nation’s courage, steadfastness and determination and showed how capable it was to face difficult situations.

“Operation Zarb-e-Azb is a continuation of this conviction, which has resulted in containing terrorists through combined will of our political leadership, determination of the nation, and sacrifices and professionalism of armed forces and security institutions,” he said.


September 07, 2016
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