Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan delivered a poignant message on the eve of Defence and Martyrs Day, observed annually on September 6th, to honor the heroes of the 1965 war with India and to reaffirm the nation’s commitment to peace and dialogue. The Prime Minister saluted the Armed Forces for their historical and continued readiness, while also emphasizing Pakistan’s stance on dialogue over conflict and the importance of resolving the Kashmir dispute.
According to Press Information Department, the Prime Minister’s message highlighted the valor and sacrifices of Pakistani soldiers in the 1965 conflict, where despite being outnumbered, Pakistan’s Armed Forces managed to deliver a substantial defeat to the invading forces. Fifty-nine years later, the spirit of resilience and dedication remains strong among the troops, ensuring the nation’s sovereignty and freedom. The Prime Minister also paid tribute to the families of the martyrs, acknowledging their sacrifices and drawing inspiration from their resilience.
The government’s current stance, as outlined by Prime Minister Sharif, advocates for cooperation over confrontation on the international stage, with a particular emphasis on addressing regional issues such as the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. He called for its resolution through a UN-mandated plebiscite, reflecting the aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Additionally, the message touched upon the global issue of terrorism, with a call to eradicate its roots, including those extending from neighboring countries.
On a broader scale, the message from the Prime Minister conveyed a strong solidarity with Palestine, urging international action to protect Palestinian citizens and to halt the atrocities in Gaza. The revised National Action Plan, termed Azm-e-Istehkam, was highlighted as a strategy to combat both physical and digital terrorism comprehensively.
The address ended on a note of hope and resolve, urging the Pakistani people to draw upon their historical resilience and to work collectively towards a prosperous future. The Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to peace and development, not only within its borders but also globally, particularly in supporting the Palestinian cause on international platforms.