Islamabad, Speaker National Assembly Raja Pervez Ashraf has solemnly commemorated the 9th anniversary of the Army Public School (APS) Peshawar tragedy, honoring the lives of the children and teachers martyred in the horrific attack.

According to National Assembly of Pakistan, the Speaker, in a heartfelt statement, declared December 16, 2014, as one of the darkest days in Pakistan’s history. He emphasized that the pain and sorrow inflicted by this tragedy are as fresh in the nation’s heart as on the first day. The speaker acknowledged that the sacrifices of these innocent heroes are a constant reminder of the need for unity and collective effort towards a developed, prosperous, and terrorism-free Pakistan.

Ashraf commended the families of the victims for their resilience and stated that the entire nation shares in their grief. He described the APS tragedy as a national calamity, one that has forever etched the sacrifices of its victims in the country’s history.

Furthermore, the Speaker highlighted the unity and resolve against terrorism that emerged in the wake of the APS tragedy. He praised the Pakistani armed forces for their significant efforts in combating terrorism and stressed the importance of standing in solidarity with security agencies.

The Speaker’s message underscored the ongoing fight against terrorism, vowing that it would continue until the last terrorist is vanquished. He assured that the sacrifices made in the APS tragedy would not be in vain and called for creating a legacy that honors the memory of the martyred children and teachers.

Ashraf concluded by extending profound condolences to the families of the APS martyrs, reiterating that their loss is a shared burden of the entire nation.