Pakistan on Friday observed the country’s 60th Defence and Martyrs Day, with the country’s civilian and military leadership paying rich tribute to martyrs, ghazis and resilient citizens whose sacrifices continue to safeguard the nation’s freedom and sovereignty.

 

The day, which coincided with Eid Milad Un Nabi (PBUH), began with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital.

 

President Asif Ali Zardari called September 6 a “glorious chapter” in Pakistan’s history. In his message, he paid tribute to soldiers and citizens who defended the nation with unshakable faith and unmatched courage.

 

The president highlighted the significance of this year’s Defence Day following the success of Operation Bunyan Um Marsoos. “Just as our courageous forces demonstrated extraordinary valour and dedication in 1965, our sons once again proved their unmatched bravery during this year’s operation,” he said.

 

The president lauded the professional excellence of the armed forces, describing Pakistan’s defence as “impregnable” and rooted in the spirit of its people. As supreme commander, he vowed to modernise defence capabilities while countering threats such as hybrid warfare, disinformation and psychological operations.

 

President Zardari urged all pillars of the state, particularly the youth, to remain alert and united. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s stance on Kashmir and Palestine, calling Indian occupation the root cause of regional instability. He demanded a just solution for Kashmir and an independent Palestinian state with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

 

Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif called September 6 a symbol of courage, unity and resilience. He said Pakistan’s armed forces, with full support of the nation, had proven their ability to defend the country in 1965 and once again in 2025.

 

The premier praised the army, navy, and air force for their professionalism and combat skills under the leadership of Field Marshal Munir. “The courage of martyrs and war veterans would continue to inspire generations,” he said.

 

PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peace but warned against “continuous Indian provocations and shifting regional dynamics”. He stressed countering foreign-sponsored terrorism and proxy warfare while strengthening the economy as a pillar of defence.

 

Expressing solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, he reiterated support for their right to self-determination and condemned Israeli aggression in Palestine. He urged uninterrupted humanitarian aid for Gaza.

 

Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu also paid homage to the nation’s heroes.

 

In a statement, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said September 6 epitomises the unflinching resolve and unshakeable spirit of the Pakistani nation.

 

“On this historic day, our brave soldiers, with the support of the nation, stood like an insurmountable wall against blatant aggression, thwarting the nefarious designs of an enemy far superior in arms and numbers. The feats of heroic valour and sacrifice left an indelible message on the sands of time: that a united nation can never be defeated,” the military’s media wing said.

 

ISPR added that the courage of fearless heroes continues to inspire future generations and their legacy shall live on forever.

 

The armed forces also expressed their resolve to extend all-out support to victims of the ongoing floods across Pakistan and reaffirmed their pledge to defend the country against any threat, vowing a “befitting and decisive response” to any attempt to disrupt hard-earned peace.