ISLAMABAD: President Mamnoon Hussain said that the acknowledgement of the sacrifices of September 6 (Defence Day) demands national unity and collective thinking, which is a pre-requisite to face challenges, deter nefarious designs and thwart conspiracies against Pakistan.
“September 6 is a milestone in the history of our nation when 51 years back, the officers, sailors and pilots courageously defended the homeland against the enemy aggression with the support of nation,” he said. Paying tribute to the heroes of September 6, the President said the day highlighted people’s resolve to defend the motherland at all costs.
“This resolve is the pivot that guarantees the country’s security, progress and prosperity. On this day, every year, we pay homage to the Shuhada and our Ghazis,” he added. The president said the national spirit and unity humbled the enemy despite its numerical superiority. He said the nuclear capability and modern weaponry were an attestation of “our commitment to the defence of our country.”
“I assure the nation that Pakistan’s defence is in safe and strong hands of our formidable armed forces. Our army, navy and air force are equipped with professional proficiency that matches the modern-day combat requirements. I am pleased to note that we have achieved the goal of indigenous production of state-of-the-art defence technology,” he noted.
“I am proud of the professionalism and patriotism of the armed forces. Besides watchfully guarding the frontiers, our armed forces, together with other law enforcement agencies, are playing an unforgettable role in maintaining law and order within the country,” he added.
The president observed that the successful Zarb-e-Azb operation improved the security situation in the country for which the nation eulogised and paid tribute to the brave and valiant armed forces.
Mamnoon reiterated that Pakistan desired peaceful and friendly relations with its neighbours and was sincere in pursuing the policy of regional cooperation. He emphasised that their desire for peace must not be construed as weakness. He said the stand on Kashmir was clear as it was the unfinished agenda of the United Nations.
“We are very much aware of our defence needs and are fully capable of giving a befitting response to any kind of aggression,” he resolved.
