Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday paid tribute to Pakistan’s armed forces, martyrs and veterans while commemorating “Marka-e-Haq,” describing it as a symbol of the nation’s courage, resilience and military strength.
In a statement, the prime minister said the occasion was a day to express gratitude to Allah Almighty for His blessings and to honor the sacrifices of those who defended the country.
Tribute to martyrs and armed forces
Sharif said the nation salutes its martyrs, their families and the ghazis who stood “like a steel wall” in defense of the homeland.
He praised the coordinated response of Pakistan’s armed forces across land, sea, air and cyber domains, saying it demonstrated the country’s defensive capabilities and national unity.
According to the prime minister, the events of Marka-e-Haq showed that Pakistan is a peace-loving but resilient and dignified nation that cannot be intimidated by aggression.
Leadership of military chiefs acknowledged
The prime minister paid tribute to Syed Asim Munir for what he described as bold and courageous leadership.
He also acknowledged the strategic role of Zaheer Ahmed Baber and Naveed Ashraf.
Sharif said the armed forces, with the support of the Pakistani people, had written a new chapter in the regional security environment.
Pakistan reiterates commitment to peace and security
The statement emphasized that Pakistan desires peace while maintaining deterrence and safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The prime minister warned that any aggression against Pakistan would receive an “immediate, befitting and full-spectrum response.”
He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to continue counterterrorism efforts against militant groups, including what he referred to as “Fitna al-Khawarij” and “Fitna al-Hindustan.”
Kashmir issue highlighted
Referring to the Kashmir dispute, Sharif said no story of Pakistan was complete without Kashmir, calling it the “unfinished agenda” of the partition of the subcontinent.
He reiterated Pakistan’s position that lasting peace and strategic stability in South Asia would remain difficult without a resolution of the Kashmir issue in accordance with United Nations resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
Pakistan’s role in regional peace emphasized
The prime minister stated that Pakistan is increasingly recognized globally as a responsible country committed to peace and stability.
He also referred to Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts during the ongoing US-Iran tensions, saying the country had worked to promote dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution.
Sharif concluded by urging the nation to honor the sacrifices of martyrs by remaining united and working selflessly for Pakistan’s progress and security.