Pakistan observes Defence Day with zeal, pays rich tribute to martyrs
Islamabad: Defence Day is being observed across Pakistan today with great zeal and fervor. The day began in the federal capital with a 31-gun salute.
According to Kashmir Media Service, a solemn ceremony of the change of guards was held at the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam in Karachi, where cadets of PAF Academy Asghar Khan took charge. Air Vice Marshal Shehryar Khan, the chief guest, laid a floral wreath, offered and noted in the visitors’ book that Pakistan Air Force has never disappointed the nation and has always forced enemies to face defeat.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid rich tribute to the valiant sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces and martyrs, reaffirming the nation’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty, countering modern threats, and building a united, prosperous future.
In separate messages, they also recalled the 1965 war with India, noting that Pakistan’s valiant armed forces, with the full support of the people, had thwarted enemy aggression, proving that the country possesses the will and capacity to defend its independence and integrity.
President Zardari described September 6 as a glorious chapter in the country’s history. He emphasised that the spirit of sacrifice from the 1965 war continues to serve as a guiding light for future generations.
He highlighted the significance of this year’s Defence Day in light of the recent Operation Bunyanum Marsoos conducted in May 2025 against India. “Just as our courageous forces demonstrated extraordinary valor and dedication in 1965, our sons once again proved their unmatched bravery during this year’s operation,” he said.
PM Shehbaz Sharif described September 6 as a symbol of bravery, unity, and resolve in national history. He recalled how, 60 years ago, Pakistan’s valiant armed forces foiled the enemy’s aggressive designs. Highlighting the recent Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, Marka-i-Haq, PM Shehbaz lauded the Pakistan Army, Navy, and Air Force for their unmatched professionalism and combat skills under the strategic leadership of Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to peace and constructive international engagement but warned against ignoring the reality of continuous Indian provocations and shifting regional dynamics.
Expressing solidarity with the oppressed people of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the prime minister reiterated unwavering support for their struggle for self-determination, stressing that it cannot be suppressed by force. He also strongly condemned ongoing Israeli aggression in Palestine and urged the international community to ensure the protection of civilians and uninterrupted humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The ISPR, in its message, said that on this historic day, the armed forces, with the full support of the nation, defeated an enemy far superior in weapons and numbers. It said the courage of fearless heroes continue to inspire generations, while the entire nation salutes its martyrs, veterans, and their steadfast families. The Pakistan Army, it added, has always stood firm against external aggression and terrorism.
In Islamabad, a ceremony was also held at the Naval Headquarters to mark the day at the Martyrs’ Monument. Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf laid a floral wreath, offered Fateha, and presented flowers to the families and children of martyrs. The ceremony was attended by naval officers and the families of the fallen heroes.
