Message by the President of Pakistan, H.E. Mamnoon Hussain on the occasion of Defence Day of Pakistan

6th September is a landmark in the history of Pakistan. 53 years ago on this day, the valiant Armed Forces of Pakistan successfully repulsed the enemy’s aggression and defended the Homeland. The people of Pakistan demonstrated unsurpassed national unity and stood by their armed forces to thwart the evil designs of the enemy. Every year on this day, we pay tribute to our Martyrs and Ghazis and reiterate our resolve to defend the country.

It is a matter of great pride for me that the nation and armed forces have also displayed similar spirit, courage and commitment in the war against terrorism. With the unwavering support of the entire nation, our armed forces, law enforcement agencies, police and intelligence agencies have shown resolute courage, professionalism and commitment while fighting this difficult war. They have defeated the enemy’s belligerence on both the internal and external fronts. The outcomes of the successful operations against terrorists, especially of operation Radd-ul-Fasaad are significant. These achievements are the result of the valour of our people and sacrifices of the Armed Forces of Pakistan. No other nation has sacrificed as much as the people of Pakistan in the war against terror. The International community not only recognizes our enormous contribution towards the eradication of terrorism but is also benefitting from our expertise and cooperation in the fight against terrorism.

These sacrifices and exertions call for carrying on the spirit of September by forging unity among our ranks and fostering collective consciousness and wisdom because these traits are imperative to defeat the evil designs and conspiracies of the enemy. It is our foremost duty to defend every inch of the motherland.

Resolution of the Kashmir dispute is the key to regional peace. The world must play its role to stop the gross human rights violations perpetrated by the Indian forces in Indian Occupied Kashmir and help them in attaining their inalienable right to self-determination.

I assure you that the sacrifices of our people and our armed forces will not go in vain. I am confident that our efforts against extremism will bear fruit and will lead towards peace, prosperity and development.

Afwaj-e-Pakistan Zindabad

Pakistan Paindabad