ISLAMABAD: Nation is celebrating the 53rd anniversary of 1965 war today.  The day dawned with thirty-one gun salutes in the Federal Capital and twenty-one gun salutes in provincial capitals.

The main ceremony was held at GHQ Rawalpindi where Chief Guest Prime Minister Imran Khan while addressing the nation said that Pakistan would not fight anyone else’s war nor it would become part of it.

Asserting that he never wanted Pakistan to partake in the War on Terror, the Prime Minister promised that Pakistan would never be engaged in proxy wars. In categorical terms, Imran Khan said: “Pakistan will never participate in anyone’s war. We have a commitment to stand by our people and protect our interests.” 

Holding that from now on Pakistan’s foreign policy would be in the interest of the nation the Prime Minister said despite numerous challenges Pakistan would become a great nation of the world by strengthening of institutions and promoting meritocracy: “We will have to strengthen our weak institutions, ensure merit and follow the golden principles laid down by our Holy Prophet Mohammad (Peace Be Upon Him).”

PM said the government would bring meritocracy and transparency in all sectors by following the principles of the state of Medina.

Pointing towards country’s immense resources, minerals, diverse topography, four seasons Imran Khan said that the only ingredient needed to make the nation great was working honestly.

Harboring on the theme of meritocracy Khan observed that the Pak Army was the only functioning institution in the country because there was no political interference: “I’ve come to realize that there’s only one institution that has remained intact in the country and is functional and that is Pakistan Army.”

Telling about his own experience in 1965, Imran Khan told that as a 12-year-old boy he too went out holding a rifle to defend the motherland when told that the Indian paratroopers were about to land. 

Imran Khan was of the opinion that there was no civil-military divide and armed forces were nation’s asset and a source of pride. Rubbishing the myth of a civil-military divide in the country he reiterated the Pakistani nation was destined to rise as all state institutions were determined to work together, to make it great.

 Prime Minister Imran Khan said, “We both [civil, military] have a common goal and that is to take this country forward. There is a myth of civil-military rift. There is no such issue. We have to elevate this country. Our life and death; is for this country.”

He saluted the valor and sacrifices of the armed forces, which stood strong against all odds in the aftermath of the 9/11 and the unconventional war that followed, to safeguard the interests of the country. Prime Minister Imran Khan said the martyrs had the honor of being on the second highest tiers of honor after the Prophets.

Flanked by Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa, the prime minister witnessed the around two hours event along with his wife. The attendees included Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Zubair Mahmood Hayat, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar, Speaker National Assembly Asad Qaisar, Deputy Speaker Muhammad Qasim Khan Suri, ministers for foreign affairs, defense, defense production, finance, information and railways. Political leaders from across the divide included Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Shehbaz Sharif.

The event is held annually to mark the Defense Day of Pakistan and takes the participants through the long journey of blood, sweat, and tears the country had to undertake since gaining independence and highlights the sacrifices it had to render to maintain its sovereignty.

The tales of valor of the martyrs and their courageous families, who were bravely coping with their loss, brought tears to the eyes.

Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Qamar Javed Bajwa too maintained that without strengthening the state institutions, democracy could not sustain in the country. He held that 6th September 1965 was a historic day in Pakistan when its armed forces with the full support of entire nation defeated the enemy.

The Army Chief said that September 6, was the day to express solidarity with the martyrs of Pakistan. Recalling the events, he said every Pakistani became a soldier (on September 6, 1965) and played his role to safeguard the country. He said Pakistani soldiers fought valiantly and did not allow the enemy to inflict harm to the motherland. He said the accounts of bravery and determination of Pakistani soldiers during the September 1965 War were still a beacon of light for all of us. “Even today our Jawans (soldiers) draw inspiration from this war,” he said.

The COAS said that Pakistan had learned a lot from the wars of 1965 and 1971. He said due to the threat of conventional war Pakistan strengthened its defense capabilities. He said despite economic difficulties Pakistan became an atomic power with the full cooperation of the nation. “This made country’s defense impregnable. But then started the era of non-conventional war. During the past two decades, a wave of terrorism began in the whole world, which has changed the structure and character of the war. Unfortunately, Pakistan also became a victim of this war,” he added.

He said while rendering sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, Pakistani nation, and armed forces had learned a lot. “During this period an attempt was made to impose fear and terror on us. Our houses, schools, worship places, recreational spots, and leaders were attacked. Efforts were made to weaken and divide us internally,” he added. The COAS said during that difficult time Pakistani nation and armed forces remained steadfast. He said the entire nation together with armed forces fully fought the menace of terrorism and achieved unprecedented success.

He said more than 70,000 Pakistanis were martyred and injured in that war, besides it incurred economic losses. He said the success in the war against terrorism became possible only with the cooperation and sacrifices of people of Balochistan, FATA and Karachi. He said the Shuhada and Ghazis included personnel of armed forces, Rangers, Frontier Corps, police and civilians.  He said Martyrs Day was being celebrated since 2014, along with the Defence Day to remember the matchless sacrifices of the Shuhada and Ghazis.
He said alive nations never forget their martyrs adding that the nations who forget their martyrs could not exist. Expressing the determination to make Pakistan a fully peaceful country, he said that the sacrifices rendered in the war against terrorism would not go in waste. Moreover, we will also avenge the blood flowing on the border, he added.
He said during the past two decades Pakistan had passed through critical times and rendered several sacrifices but the task had not ended yet. “The war is still continuing. We still have to reach the destination of enduring peace. We have to ensure the development and progress of the country and take it to the level where the enemy cannot cast an evil eye on it again,” he added.
He said that Pakistan would also have to fight hunger, poverty and illiteracy and success on that front was only possible through unity. Instead of thinking for ourselves we will all have to think for our country, he added.
He said no individual was above an institution and no institution was above the country. The continuity of democracy was imperative for the country’s stability, solidarity, and progress. But democracy cannot flourish without democratic attitudes, the supremacy of law and Constitution and strengthening of institutions, he added.
He said the presence of leaders of various political parties, representatives of all school of thoughts and institutions in today’s ceremony was a testimony of the fact that the Pakistani nation was more determined and united and soon it would get its due status in the comity of nations as envisioned by Quaid-e-Azam, Muhammad Ali Jinnah. The Army Chief also paid glowing tribute to the people of Indian Occupied Kashmir, who were valiantly struggling for their right. to self-determination.

_______________________________________________________________________________

PAF’s contingent assumed guard duties at the Quaid’s Mazar:

 Aviation cadets from Pakistan Air Force Academy, Asghar Khan assumed guard duties at the Mausoleum to honor the Father of the Nation. Air Vice Marshal Muhammad Nadeem Sabir, Air Officer Commanding, PAF Academy Asghar Khan laid the wreath at the grave of the great leader.

Naval Head Quarters:

Relevant pieces: 

Pakistan Air Force (PAF) celebrated Defence Day of Pakistan with customary enthusiasm at all PAF bases and installations, said a press release issued here by Directorate of Media Affairs of PAF. Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan, in his message on the auspicious occasion, said, “Defence Day of Pakistan symbolizes the exemplary courage, sacrifice, and unity of the armed forces and the people of Pakistan. The day holds a special significance in our history, as it revives the memory of our nation’s resolve in the face of aggression, thus showing the world that Pakistan knows how to safeguard its territorial integrity. Undoubtedly, Pakistan Air Force, in unison with sister services, delivered a knock-out punch to its rival during the ensuing air battle. Many brave sons of the soil embraced Shahadat or returned with a glow of pride as Ghazi. We salute and pay homage to our heroes for their valorous deeds”. This epoch-making day was celebrated with a renewed pledge and determination to make “Fazaia” even stronger and potent force to confront any challenge. The day started with special ‘Dua’ (prayer) and Quran Khawani for the Shuhada (martyrs) at all the PAF bases.  Static displays of PAF aircraft and ammunition was held at PAF Base Nur Khan (Rawalpindi), PAF Base Masroor (Karachi), PAF Base Peshawar, PAF Base Samungli (Quetta) and PAF Base Lahore.  PAF’s fighter aircraft, including F-16, JF-17 Thunder, Mirage and F-7 PG, performed aerobatics to pay tribute to the warriors of 1965 & 1971 wars. Students form Fazaia schools and colleges presented national songs at the occasion which were highly applauded by the audience.  A large number of people, including women and children, keenly witnessed the PAF’s aircraft and arsenal.  On the auspicious occasion, the PAF launched two motivational songs (“Wardi” sung by Shafqat Amanat Ali Khan and “Aye Mujahid-e-Asman” sung by Najam Sheraz,) to evoke the patriotism of Pakistani nation. To pay tribute to Shuhada and veterans of PAF, a special programme “Mujahideen-e-Aflak Ko Salam” has also been produced by Pakistan Air Force, which would be aired on electronic media on the eve of 7th September.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Pakistan Navy celebrated the 53rd anniversary of Defence Day of Pakistan with due solemnity and reverence. The day was observed to commemorate supreme sacrifices of country’s armed forces and Shuhada, Ghazis and national heroes, who stood against the aggressor and thwarted designs of a numerically superior enemy with an unprecedented display of unity and resolve during the 1965 Indo-Pak War. Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi, in his message on the occasion, paid tribute to the Shuhada and Ghazis, who rendered immense sacrifices while the nation stood united behind its soldiers, sailors and airmen in the defense of the motherland, a press release issued here by Directorate of Public Relations of Pakistan Navy on Thursday said. We need to remind ourselves that as a nation, we have been tested on numerous occasions whether on account of aggression from across the border or by extremist elements. Yet, we have always emerged more resolute by adhering to the spirit of Quaid’s golden principles of Faith, Unity, and Discipline, the Naval Chief said. This day demands from us that we renew our pledge to work selflessly and sacrifice whatever it takes, for a brighter and better tomorrow of our future generations. By anchoring faith in Allah Almighty, keeping unity in our ranks and striving relentlessly in the defense of our motherland, let us commit to partake in transforming Pakistan into a strong, secure and prosperous country, he added. The day dawned with special prayers in naval mosques for solidarity and integrity of the country. Quran Khawani was held for eternal peace of Shuhada of the country.  Wreath laying and Fateha Khawani were also held at Shuhada’s memorials across the country. Vice Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Kaleem Shaukat laid a wreath at Shuhada Monument at Naval Headquarters Islamabad and offered Fateha.  Flag hoisting ceremonies were held at all Pakistan Navy units and establishments wherein Commanding Officers of all units and establishments addressed special gatherings of officers and men and highlighted the significance of the day. All ships and establishments were decorated and illuminated in accordance with Naval traditions.  In addition, sports activities and declamation, quiz, Milli Naghma competitions were also held at various Navy units and establishments and PN administrated schools and colleges.  Besides various ceremonies and events, the hallmark of the day remained the mega display of professional acumen by Pakistan Navy Aviation, Pak Marines and Special Forces at Sea View Beach Clifton Karachi. Governor Sindh, Imran Ismail was the chief guest. The event included a stunning demonstration of coordinated assault to rescue hostages by Pak Marines and SSG (N). The assault demonstration was followed by fly past by PN fixed-wing aircraft and rotary wing (helos) elements. In the end, Special Service Group (N) presented a Free Fall Jump display and landed amidst chanting crowds present at the venue.

_______________________________________________________________________________

The Defence Day of Pakistan was observed with great zeal and fervor to pay homage to the martyrs, who laid down their lives for the defense of the motherland.  The day dawned with special prayers, at Fajr in the mosques across the city for the stability, defense, progress, and prosperity of Pakistan. Various schools and colleges also arranged different programs to pay tribute to the martyrs including the heroes of the September 1965 war in acknowledgment of laying down their precious lives for the defense of the motherland. Army Heritage Foundation also arranged a function at Ayub Park where students of Cadets Foundation school and Springfield schools paid rich tributes to the martyrs of Pakistan Army by singing national songs, presenting tableau’s and speeches. On the occasion, documentaries portraying sacrifices of the stalwarts of Pakistan Army who sacrificed their lives for the defense of the country were also screened. Newspapers printed special supplements and radio and TV channels aired program to highlight the importance of the day and courage of armed forces. 

_______________________________________________________________________________

Like other parts of the country, Pakistan Defence Day was observed at the UAF with national zeal and enthusiasm. The main ceremony was organized at New Senate Hall here. The participants renewed pledges to safeguard geographically and ideological boundaries, and territorial integrity of the country. The students presented patriotic songs and delivered heart-touching speeches. They also paid tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives to defend the motherland. The University also distributed 4000 moringa plants among the society on the day under the supervision of Dr. Shahzad Basra. Addressing on the occasion, UAF Vice-Chancellor Dr. Zafar Iqbal Randhawa saluted the mothers, fathers, sisters, wives, and brothers of the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for defending the country. He said that the independence was a great blessing. “Now, the duty lies on the shoulder of the nation to move the country to new horizons of the progress and prosperity,” he added. He said, “The country has given marvelous things and we are enjoying freedom thanks to Pakistan.” He said that it was time to give back the country in term of hardworking, education and changing mindset. He said, “The armed forces and the whole nation commemorate September 6 to pay tributes to martyrs and Ghazis for their supreme sacrifices.” He advised the students to follow sayings of Allama Iqbal and Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. Nasrullah Tahir Dogar said that country was achieved after a tremendous struggle and sacrifices under unprecedented freedom movement led by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah that resulted in the emergence of an independent Muslim state on the map of the world. He said, “The day reminds us the sacrifices of the army and people.” He said in 1965 on this day, Pakistan forces with the support of the whole nation defended the homeland against the enemy aggression.

_______________________________________________________________________________

The Defence Day of Pakistan was celebrated in a befitting manner in the provincial capital to pay homage to the Martyrs and Ghazis who rendered great sacrifices for the beloved motherland. Special prayers were offered for the peace, progress, and prosperity of the country. In connection with the Defence Day, an impressive ceremony was held at the tomb of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, a great poet of the East. Lahore Garrison Commander Major General Muhammad Amir visited Mazar-e-Iqbal. He laid the wreath on the grave of Allama Iqbal, offered Fateha and recorded his impression in the visitor’s book. Pak Army officers and jawans also visited Miani Sahib graveyard where they offered Fateha at the grave of Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed. To mark the day, a prestigious ceremony was held at Fortress Stadium, which was attended by Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar, Punjab Governor Chaudhry Muhammad Sarwar and Lahore Corps Commander Lieutenant General Amir Riaz. The national anthem was played at the start of the ceremony. Later on, different special performances were presented. Pakistan Army also presented special performances on this occasion, which mesmerized the spectators. Punjab Chief Minister in his message on the Defence Day said, “The day is an occasion to pay tributes to immortal sacrifices of Pak Armed forces.” He said Pakistan Air Force (PAF) destroyed the air strength of the enemy by ensuring the defense of the geographical boundaries of the country and PAF unique role in the war of 1965 would always be remembered in golden words in the defense history of the world. He said, “PAF is known as one of the best air forces in the world and the ones who sacrificed their lives for the motherland are heroes of the whole nation.” A special ceremony was held at PAF Airbase in connection with the Defence Day here in which Punjab Senior Minister Abdul Aleem Khan was the chief guest. Aleem Khan said, “Real heroes are those who rendered sacrifices to protect the future of the nation.” The Senior Minister also visited Batapur and Munawaan. He offered Fateha for all those who embraced martyrdom in the war of 1965. He said, “As a nation, we are heading towards progress and prosperity under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Imran Khan and it is high time that we all affirm this belief that no stone will be left unturned in this regard.” PTI leaders Ejaz Diyaal, Jamshaid Iqbal Cheema, Hafiz Farhat Abbass, Mansab Farmaish Awan, and party workers in large number were present on the occasion and chanted slogans in favor of Pakistan, Imran Khan, and Pak Army. Air Vice Marshal Irfan Ahmed and high-ranking officers of Air Force were present. Special ceremonies were held in educational institutes in which the importance of the day was highlighted. Different departments including Pakistan Railways, Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), Rescue 1122 and others marked the day to pay tribute to the martyrs and express solidarity with their families.
_______________________________________________________________________________

The entire nation along with the armed forces Thursday celebrated the Defence Day of Pakistan with a renewed pledge to continue safeguarding the geographical, ideological boundaries and territorial integrity of the motherland against all threats. The day dawned with special prayers in the mosques for the well-being and prosperity of the country. `Fateha’ and Quran Khawani were held for all those, who laid their lives in line to serve the nation. Special events held to mark the day. Prime Minister Imran Khan was the chief guest at Defence and Martyr’s Day ceremony held at the General Headquarters (GHQ). Opposition leader Shahbaz Sharif, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Parliamentarians, and other prominent personalities attended the unique function. Wreath laying ceremonies held at the mausoleums of the recipients of Nishan-e-Haider (the highest gallantry award), which was attended by the senior officials of the respective areas across the country. Several ceremonies were held to pay homage to the Pakistan Army soldiers, officials and other law enforcement agencies personnel, who laid their lives in the battlefield. Main ceremonies were held at all district headquarters in which families of martyrs were invited to commemorate sacrifices of the martyrs. Army Heritage Foundation, Rawalpindi arranged a function at Ayub Park where students of Cadets Foundation school and Springfield schools paid rich tributes to the martyrs of Pakistan Army by singing national songs, presenting tableau’s and speeches. To mark the day with national enthusiasm, different programmes were chalked out by the Armed Forces of Pakistan in Peshawar. The major function was held at Karnal Sher Khan Stadium where different types of weapons, warplanes and helicopters’ models etc. were displayed for students and the general public.  A simple but impressive ceremony was organized inside the Peshawar Base and Chief Minister KP Mahmud Khan, AVM Sarfaraz Khan, Air Officer Commanding Northern Air Command, Base Commander Peshawar Base Air Commodore Muhammad Qaiser Janjua, High Military and Civil Officials, parents and relatives of the martyrs and ghazis, good number of school children and people from different walk of life were present. Another major function was held at Swabi where a wreath was laid on the grave of Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed (Nishan-e-Haider). A smartly turned out contingent of Pakistan Army was present salute to the celebrated hero of Kargil war.  The day was also celebrated in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). Special ceremonies were held at various places in AJK, including all the ten district headquarters, to pay tribute to the martyrs of the 1965 Indo-Pak war as well as other military and civilian martyrs for giving the supreme sacrifices of their valuable lives to safeguard the country. Lahore Garrison Commander Major General Muhammad Amir visited Mazar-e-Iqbal. He laid the wreath on the grave of Allama Iqbal, offered Fateha and recorded his impression in the visitor’s book. Pak Army officers and jawans also visited Miani Sahib graveyard where they offered Fateha at the grave of Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed. To mark the day, a prestigious ceremony was held at Fortress Stadium, which was attended by Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar, Punjab Governor Chaudhry Muhammad Sarwar and Lahore Corps Commander Lieutenant General Amir Riaz.  The change of guard ceremony took place at Mazar-e-Quaid in Karachi in the morning. A PAF contingent assumed guard duty. The representatives of three armed services also visited the Mazar of the Father of the Nation, laid wreaths and offer Fateha.  In Balochistan, the main ceremony was held at the Yadgar-i-Shuhada in Quetta Cantt. Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Jam Kamal Khan and Commander Southern Command Lieutenant General Asim Saleem Bajwa laid a wreath on the Yadgar-i-Shuhada. A flag hoisting ceremony was held at the grave of Nawabzada Mir Siraj Raisani Shaheed in his ancestral village Killi Kanak in Mastung district. The media carried the messages of President, Prime Minister, Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly in relation to the significance of the Day.  Special talk shows were held on the state-run and private television channels and radio stations across the country. It was on this day in 1965 that the Indian forces crossed international border in the darkness of night to attack Pakistan, but ever-vigilant armed forces, solidly backed by the nation, foiled enemy’s nefarious designs. The Armed Forces of Pakistan commemorate 6th September to pay tribute to `Shuhada’ and Ghazis for their supreme sacrifices and gallantry acts. Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of Pakistan Army, had released a video song in commemoration of defense services by Pakistan Armed Forces. The promo shared at the official handle of DG ISPR, Major General Asif Ghafoor shows combined footage of the country’s all forces putting their lives on the line to protect the nation, whereas in the background a song filled with gusto and patriotism can be heard. Roads, intersections and other public places all over the country had been decorated with banners and steamers, bearing pictures of martyrs of Pakistan Armed Forces under the theme of ‘Hamain Payar Hay Pakistan Se’. Similarly, Pakistan Railways has decorated its trains giving the message that the Pakistani nation loves its armed forces and law enforcement agencies.  Radio Pakistan aired special programmes based on interviews of martyrs of Pakistan and paid homage to the heroes of the nation who sacrificed their lives for the motherland.

_______________________________________________________________________________

Prime Minister Imran Khan said the country had undergone an ordeal during the war against terrorism, but its army and intelligence agencies had steered it out of the issue. He said following a six-hour long briefing at the General Headquarters, he came to the conclusion that of all the institutions, only the army remained intact as an institution just because it maintained professionalism and meritocracy, which were the guarantors for the success of any institution. He cited the revivals of Germany and Japan after the collapse in the World War-II just because their institutions remained intact. The prime minister said the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) had built a leading nation out of disintegrated Arab tribes living in deserts that later ruled the world for centuries. Within a short span of time, he said, the Holy Prophet (PBUH) had empowered his nation to defeat the then Roman and Persian empires. “We have been asked to learn from the basic principles of that ideal state which included justice, meritocracy, education, and equality.” The prime minister said Pakistan was faced with the issues of foreign loans, water, and power shortages; but he was confident that it would rise as a great nation, when every poor would have opportunities at par with the rich and the influential, besides enjoying easy justice, free medical treatment and equal opportunities for their children. He reiterated his government’s resolve for uplifting the national institutions and said the provision of education and health facilities to out-of-school children and those with stunted growth, respectively, was the government’s responsibility as they also had equal rights to live a successful life. He said the country would progress when the people did not have to move abroad to earn sustenance and they found that their state was providing justice to them.  Imran Khan said Pakistan was rich in natural resources, including gas, minerals like copper, fertile land and deep oceans, but the only need was the elevation of national institutions. He paid tribute to the Pakistan Army for getting the country rid of terrorism.  Addressing the families of the martyred soldiers, he said their dear and near ones, who had sacrificed their lives for the nation’s security, had been ranked after Prophets by Allah Almighty. The prime minister recalled that he was just 12 years old in 1965, and he had picked up his father’s gun to join his relatives to fight with the Indian paratroopers, who were feared to have landed on Pakistan’s soil on September 7 that year. The whole nation was united to support the Pakistan Army and had shown an unprecedented zeal, he added. He said had he not gone into cricket, he would have been a retired soldier today.

_______________________________________________________________________________