Washington D.C: Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, called for greater international support and understanding of Pakistan’s security challenges, including its efforts against terrorism and the situation in Kashmir. Speaking at the commemoration of Pakistan Defense and Martyrs’ Day, he outlined the significant sacrifices made by Pakistan’s military and civilians in recent years.
According to Press Information Department, Ambassador Sheikh, during his keynote address, emphasized that Pakistan’s Armed Forces have consistently responded to both domestic challenges and foreign threats with resilience and dedication. “Our nation and its armed forces are paying a high price in our ongoing battle against terrorism, with over 80,000 civilians and 10,000 security personnel having lost their lives,” he noted. The ambassador also shed light on the renewed wave of terrorism that has claimed hundreds of lives since August 2021, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to defeating this menace.
The event, attended by U.S. officials, military attachés, diplomats, and members of the Pakistani community, also served as a platform for Ambassador Sheikh to underscore Pakistan’s longstanding contributions to global peace through its participation in U.N. peacekeeping missions. He stated that since 1960, over 235,000 Pakistani peacekeepers have served in various missions, with 181 paying the ultimate sacrifice.
Discussing the defense relationship between Pakistan and the United States, Sheikh highlighted the importance of ongoing military-to-military cooperation, which focuses on counter-terrorism, security cooperation, and disaster relief, among other areas. “We are committed to deepening this partnership, which is crucial for the peace and stability of our region,” he added.
The ambassador concluded his remarks by expressing solidarity with the people of Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOJK), urging the international community to support their right to self-determination and to recognize the repression they face. Defence Attache Brig Irfan Ali also spoke at the event, praising the professionalism and sacrifice of Pakistan’s Armed Forces in defending the nation against various threats.