• Zardari pays tribute to sacrifices for creation of Pakistan
• Shehbaz praises nation’s resilience
• Services chiefs vow to defend frontiers
ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in their separate messages, extended heartfelt felicitations to the nation on the occasion of Pakistan Day.
In his message, the president said that Pakistan Day reminds us that unity and solidarity are the most important elements in transforming national resolve into reality.
He said that on this day in 1940, the Muslims of the Subcontinent adopted the Pakistan Resolution, presenting the idea of a separate homeland where they could live freely in accordance with Islamic principles.
He said the nation pays tribute to its elders whose struggle and sacrifices led to the creation of Pakistan.
The president said that, like Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, Operation Ghazab lil-Haq has also achieved significant results. He reiterated that Pakistan would not allow any group, including Fitna al Khawarij or others, to use Afghan soil for activities against the country.
Fitna al Khawarij is a term designated by the state for the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan.
He further said that those sponsoring terrorism, including elements linked to India or its proxies, would be eliminated to ensure peace and stability.
PM’s message
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the government, despite numerous challenges, has steered Pakistan’s economy towards sustainable growth.
In his Pakistan Day message, he said the nation has demonstrated resilience and determination since independence. He urged moving forward in line with the vision of Muhammad Ali Jinnah through unity, hard work, and a collective national strategy.
He praised the armed forces and law enforcement agencies for defending Pakistan’s sovereignty with professionalism and patriotism. Referring to Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, he said the armed forces delivered a decisive response to the enemy, adding a golden chapter to military history.
The prime minister added that on the night of February 26, 2026, an attack by a Taliban insurgent group was effectively countered through Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, describing it as a symbol of Pakistan’s firm resolve against terrorism.
Separately, Senate Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani also felicitated the nation, stating that March 23 marks a historic milestone and reminds the country of the sacrifices made for independence.
On behalf of the Armed Forces of Pakistan, COAS and CDF Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu extended their heartfelt congratulations to the nation.
A statement issued by ISPR mentioned that at a time when the nation continues to confront the menace of terrorism and extremism, the Armed Forces of Pakistan, alongside our resilient people and law enforcement agencies, remain “united and unwavering in our resolve to eradicate the threats to Pakistan’s security.
“The Armed Forces of Pakistan, ever vigilant and steadfast, reaffirm their enduring commitment to defending our sacred frontiers, protecting national sovereignty, and maintaining internal security against all forms of aggression and terrorism.
“Today, Pakistan stands as a responsible and principled member of the global community — advocating peace, stability, and cooperation across the globe. As one united nation, we move forward with eternal hope, unmatched resilience, and an unshakeable commitment to enduring prosperity.”
Published in Dawn, March 23rd, 2026
