ISLAMABAD, Sept 7 (NNN-APP) – Pakistan celebrated the country’s 55th Defence Day yesterday, to pay homage to the soldiers and civilians who lost their lives in the war with India in 1965.
Defence Day was celebrated amid escalating tensions between Pakistan and India, over the latter’s decision to revoke the Indian-controlled Kashmir’s special status, in Aug last year.
The day dawned with a 31-gun salute in the federal capital, Islamabad, and 21-gun salute at provincial capitals, while special prayers were offered for the soldiers and civilians in the war.
On the occasion, Pakistani President, Arif Alvi, issued a message, saying that, Pakistan has achieved self-reliance in the defence field and the armed forces are playing an active role in internal security, as well as, nation building, while safeguarding the frontiers.
“We have thwarted external aggression. We have successfully defeated terrorism and extremism, and now we are on the path towards economic prosperity. Once again, I would like to pay homage to our great heroes, who sacrificed their lives for the motherland,” he said.
Prime Minister, Imran Khan, in his separate message said, Pakistan is for peace, but this must not be misconstrued as the country’s weakness.
“The world understands that our desire for peace is for economic well-being and prosperity of the people of this region,” Khan said.
Leader of the Opposition in Pakistan’s National Assembly or the lower house of parliament, Shahbaz Sharif, said in his message that, freedom is a precious asset that can be defended by building unity and working together in the pursuit of national objectives.
The main ceremony of the Defence Day was held at the General Headquarters in the garrison city of Rawalpindi.
On the occasion, Pakistani Chief of Army Staff, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, laid floral wreath at the memorial of martyrs.
In the southern port city of Karachi, a changing of the guard ceremony was held at the mausoleum of the country’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah.– NNN-APP
