Pakistan's Armed Forces Commemorate Defense and Martyrs' Day with Emphasis on Sacrifices and Commitment to Global Peace
Pakistan's Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, attended the commemoration of Pakistan Defense and Martyrs' Day, which was observed on September 6. The event honored the sacrifices made during the 1965 war and drew a significant turnout of diplomats, defense and military attaches, U.S. officials, and members of the Pakistani community. Ambassador Sheikh highlighted the toll of fighting terrorism, with over 80,000 civilians and 10,000 security personnel losing their lives, and expressed hope for international recognition of these sacrifices.
Key Takeaways:
- Over 80,000 civilians and 10,000 security personnel have lost their lives in the fight against terrorism in Pakistan.
- The Pakistani Armed Forces have consistently met the nation's expectations by promptly responding to both foreign threats and domestic challenges.
- The country has contributed over 235,000 personnel to 48 United Nations peacekeeping missions, demonstrating its commitment to global peace.
- The strengthening of Pak-US defense ties has focused on counter-terrorism, security cooperation, and military training.
- Brig Irfan Ali, Defence Attache of Pakistan, lauded the professional skills and dedication of the Pakistani Armed Forces, paying tribute to the soldiers and law enforcement officers who have suffered or sacrificed in the line of duty.
- Ambassador Sheikh voiced solidarity with the people of Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, urging international support for their right to self-determination and highlighting the need to address their ongoing repression.
- Ambassador Sheikh emphasized Pakistan's commitment to global peace through its active participation in UN peacekeeping missions and its efforts to strengthen defense ties with the US.
Statistics:
- Over 80,000 civilians and 10,000 security personnel have lost their lives in the fight against terrorism in Pakistan.
- The Pakistani government has contributed over 235,000 personnel to 48 United Nations peacekeeping missions.
- Pakistan's Armed Forces have consistently met the nation's expectations by promptly responding to both foreign threats and domestic challenges.
Sources:
- Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
- Embassy of Pakistan, United States (no date mentioned)
- Pakistan's Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh (in-person remarks during the commemoration of Pakistan Defense and Martyrs' Day)