ISLAMABAD: The 51st Defence Day of Pakistan was observed Tuesday with renewed pledge and commitment for the defence of the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Pakistan.
It was on this day in 1965 that the Indian forces crossed international border in the darkness of night to attack Pakistan but ever vigilant armed forces, solidly backed by the nation, foiled designs of the enemy.
The day dawned with 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salute in the provincial capitals. Special prayers were offered in mosques for the progress and prosperity of the nation.
Special prayers offered after Fajr in mosques for the progress and prosperity of the country. Fateha and Quran Khawani will also be held for the martyrs.
On the other hand, wreath laying ceremonies will be held at the mausoleums of the recipients of Nishane Haider which will be attended by the senior officers of the respective areas across the country.
Main function to highlight the significance of the day will be held at the lawns of General Headquarters (GHQ), where Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif will address the guests. People from all walks of life have also been invited at that function.
A Change of Guard ceremony attended by Air Vice Marshal Imran Khalid and Air Officer Commanding Risalpur 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.
Chief Minister of Sindh Murad Ali Shah inaugurated air show and stalls arranged by Pakistan Air Force (PAF) at Masroor Airbase. He said that we have to make country’s defence strong with proper trainings and equipment.
In Malir, parade was held to memorize the zeal and valor of 1965 war officers.
In Lahore, a contingent of Rangers presented guard of honour at the mausoleum of Allama Iqbal. General officer commanding (GOC) Commander Major Gen Sardar Tariq Aman and Brigadier Asim Gardezi offered Fateh on the grave.
In another ceremony at Rangers headquarters, DG Punjab Rangers Umar Farooq laid floral wreath over martyrs and lauded their passion and love for the country.
Inter-Services Public Relations has arranged a parade at Lahore’s Fortress Stadium in which Corps Commander is Lieutenant General Sadiq Ali was invited as a chief guest. The citizens were also informed about the gun salute in the metropolis so that they would not get afraid.
In Gujranwala, several army personnel including Corps Commander Lt Gen Ikramul Haq participated in an event organized for Defence Day at Nishan-e-Manzil.
Families of more than 250 martyred officers were invited on the occasion to commemorate their sacrifices.
Students and teachers in a school also organized a function in which children showed the entire war scene in an impressive dramatic way.
An exhibition of army officials’ equipment for air defence, armour and artillery Corps, engineering instruments and many other underway in Peshawar.
Al-Khalid and Al-Zarrar tanks, Ababeel and Shahbaz Drones, arms and radar system used by armed forces have also been displayed in the exhibition.
The civil society actively took part in the programs to highlight strong pledge of nation and armed forces to protect Pakistan.
President Mamnoon Hussain and Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif have expressed the resolve of the nation and armed forces to protect sovereignty and security of Pakistan at all costs.
In their separate messages on Pakistan Defence Day on Tuesday (6th September), they said our armed forces are fully prepared to defend the homeland.
President Mamnoon Hussain in his message on Defence Day stated that the Pakistan Army and the Pakistani nation bravely defended the country against the enemies.
The Pakistani president added that the security situation of 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, 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 of this issue only lies in implementation of the resolutions of the United Nations Security Council and in accordance with the aspirations of Kashmiri people,” PM stated in his message.
