ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday paid tribute to Pakistan’s armed forces for their sacrifices in safeguarding the country’s freedom, sovereignty and national security and stressed the importance of national unity and economic strength.

In separate messages issued on the eve of Defence Day, the two leaders also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and stability.

President Zardari said Sept 6 held a memorable place in the country’s national history and provided an opportunity to pay tribute to those who demonstrated resolve, courage and devotion in defence of the homeland during the 1965 war.

“I, on behalf of the entire nation, salute the martyrs and veterans of Pakistan’s armed forces and their families,” said the president, who is currently in London on a private visit.

Pakistan has emerged as ‘net regional security provider’, says Zardari

“Through their blood and sacrifice, our martyrs wrote timeless stories of courage and patriotism in the annals of our national history. Their sacrifices will forever remain a guiding light for generations to come,” he added.

President Zardari said the unity and spirit demonstrated by the armed forces and the nation on Sept 6, 1965, reflected the country’s collective strength.

“This day reminds us that when a nation stands united in defence of its freedom, sovereignty and homeland, no power can defeat its resolve,” he said.

He said Pakistan had increasingly emerged as a regional security provider, contributing to peace, stability and collective security beyond its borders.

He said the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement reflected Pakistan’s commitment to regional security and its growing role as a responsible and dependable partner for peace and stability.

PM’s message

PM Shehbaz described Sept 6 as “a glorious chapter in our national history”, recalling what he called the resolve, unity and sacrifices demonstrated by the armed forces and the nation in defence of the country.

He said the day provided an opportunity to pay tribute to martyrs and veterans who had made sacrifices for Pakistan’s security, sovereignty and independence.

“On the occasion of Defence Day, I, on behalf of the entire nation, pay heartfelt tribute to the martyrs and veterans of our armed forces and their families,” the prime minister said.

He said the armed forces had displayed exceptional professionalism and courage during the 1965 war, while the nation showed unity, resilience and steadfastness.

Referring to Marka-i-Haq, the prime minister praised the armed forces and their leadership, saying their response to the country’s “age-old adversary” would be remembered for generations.

Published in Dawn, September 6th, 2026