Tributes paid to nation’s heroes as Pakistan’s diplomatic missions observe Defence and Martyrs Day

Islamabad : The diplomatic missions of Pakistan across the globe joined the nation on Friday to observe the annual Defence and Martyrs Day paying tribute to the nation’s heroes including the armed forces and martyrs for their unmatched sacrifices and bravery to safeguard the country.

The missions held ceremonies at their respective premises where the envoys highlighted the gallantry of Pakistan’s armed forces and the country’s remarkable contributions and efforts for regional global peace.

FRANCE

The Embassy of Pakistan in France hosted a reception to commemorate the Defence and Martyrs Day of Pakistan attended by members of parliament, ambassadors, defence attaches, dignitaries from French armed forces, foreign affairs, defence industry and think tanks.

In his remarks, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad said that 6th September was a reminder of the exemplary courage, indomitable will, spirit of unmatched sacrifice and bravery of the armed forces and the people of Pakistan.

He paid tributes to defence forces and martyrs of Pakistan and said that Pakistan did not harbour any aggressive designs against any country, but it was supremely placed to effectively defend against any foreign aggression at any level and scale.

He mentioned Pakistan’s contributions for regional and global peace and stability especially under UN peacekeeping missions. The Ambassador highlighted that Pakistan has also been a key partner in the international community’s collective efforts in countering terrorism.

He said that the pacific settlement of disputes in accordance with the UN Charter was a cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy. A just and peaceful solution to the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with the relevant resolutions of the UN Security Council and the wishes of the Kashmiri people was imperative for durable peace and stability in South Asia, and for unlocking the full development potential of our region.

The ambassador said that Pakistan expected the international community to play their due role in promoting a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in line with international legitimacy and UNSC resolutions, to enable the Kashmiri people exercise their inalienable right to self-determination that was promised to them by the UN and the international community.

Similarly, he said Pakistan stood in complete solidarity with the Palestinian people in their just struggle against illegal occupation and for the right to self-determination and statehood.

Speaking of Pakistan-France multi-faceted bilateral relationship, including longstanding defence ties, the ambassador affirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further advance this partnership for mutual benefit.

KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA

To commemorate 59th Defence Day in a befitting manner, a ceremony was hosted in Consulate General of Pakistan, Jeddah. The event served as an opportunity to celebrate the national event with traditional zeal and fervour for the Pakistani community notables in the western region of Saudi Arabia.

The event was marked with remarks to pay tribute to the nation and its defence forces in the war of September 6th, 1965. Special messages from the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out, underscoring the significance of this day and recognizing the memorable sacrifices made by the soldiers.

A special highlight of the event was the rich and warm tribute paid to the late Syed Ali Gilani, for his memorable struggle and leadership towards the freedom movement of Indian Illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir. Speakers termed the life and role of Mr. Syed Ali Gilani as an inspiration for generations of freedom fighters in Kashmir.

Addressing the gathering Consul General of Pakistan Khalid Majid highlighted the sacrifices rendered by the brave soldiers of Pakistani Defence Forces. He paid special tribute to the martyred men and women as well as their brave families. He praised the valour and sacrifices of the Pakistani Armed Forces, who have always stood strong in defending the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to overcoming challenges and emphasized the importance of fostering strong international relationships to effectively address global issues.

PORTUGAL

Embassy of Pakistan in Portugal arranged a gathering at the embassy to commemorate the Defence Day.

Participants prayed for the safety and prosperity of Pakistan. Ambassador Dr. Muhammad Khalid Ejaz paid tribute to the sacrifices of our soldiers and martyrs.

DENMARK

A hybrid event on Defence and Martyrs Day 2024 was organized in collaboration with Pakistan Unity Forum, to pay tribute to Armed Forces of Pakistan.

A large number of Pakistanis based in Denmark attended the event.

IRAN

A ceremony was organized by Embassy of Pakistan Tehran to celebrate Defence day of Pakistan and to commemorate the sacrifices made by Pakistani soldiers in defending its borders and protecting its sovereignty, Today at Pakistan House, Tehran.

Ambassador Muhammad Mudassir Tipu welcomed the guests and thanked Brig. Gen. Muhammad Ahadi, Chief of Defence Diplomacy and international relations for gracing this historic occasion as a Chief guest. He added that his presence would further solidify our bilateral relations. “we have turned a new leaf in our relationship since the beginning of this year. The political, military and security leadership of both countries has played a critical and sincere role in solidifying and expending this vitally important relations”, he added.

While addressing at the occasion, Defense and Army Attache Brig. Muhammad Obaid Khan highlighted the significance of the defense day and underlined the immense courage and sacrifices by our brave soldiers. He stated that 6th September marks a pivotal moment in our history when the nation stood united to defeat the aggressive advancement of a numerically superior adversary. He further added that on this day we must also remember the plight of people in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir who have endured decade of injustice and brutality.

Brig General Muhammad Ahadi, Chief of Defence diplomacy and international relations of Iranian armed forces as the chief quest congratulated Pakistan on its defense day. He added that in recent years effective and serious steps have been taken to establish security on both sides of the common border of Iran and Pakistan through the close relations and cooperation between the two armed forces of our countries and the determination of both countries to establish complete security on both sides of the common border and transform it into a border of friendship and prosperity.