Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to fostering global peace and stability during a ceremony at the Yadgar-i-Fatah monument in Islamabad on Thursday, marking the country’s 79th Independence Day. They emphasized Pakistan’s ongoing role in conflict resolution and strengthening regional security.
Addressing the gathering, PM Shehbaz extended his congratulations to the nation and honored the sacrifices made by Pakistan’s founding generation. He described the Yadgar-i-Fatah as a powerful emblem of national unity, resilience, and the professionalism of the armed forces.
Notably, the prime minister hailed the “historic victory” in Marka-i-Haq and paid tribute to Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir’s leadership, crediting him for the monument’s completion within eight months due to his personal commitment. Shehbaz stated that the Yadgar-i-Fatah will continue to symbolize Pakistan’s unity.
He asserted that while Pakistan desires peace, this should not be mistaken for weakness, emphasizing the country’s stance to uphold peace with dignity and honor. Highlighting the success in Marka-i-Haq, he expressed national pride and warned adversaries to remember their defeat.
Shehbaz also declared that Pakistan’s water rights remain a non-negotiable red line, warning that any deviation by India would provoke a firm response. He stressed Pakistan’s emergence as a symbol of regional stability, with the government prioritizing new opportunities for the youth.
In a significant development, the prime minister mentioned Pakistan’s efforts to prevent new conflicts globally, including its role in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran. He also underscored Pakistan’s defense cooperation with Saudi Arabia and the recent joint defense agreement involving Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye, which aims to promote peace within the Muslim world and contribute to broader global stability.
Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s principled support for Palestinian rights and pledged ongoing moral, political, and diplomatic backing for Kashmiris.
President Asif Ali Zardari, speaking at the event, praised the nation’s victory over India under Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir’s leadership, describing it as a source of immense national pride. He called the Yadgar-i-Fatah a tribute to the sacrifices of martyrs and veterans, as well as a reminder of Pakistan’s historic accomplishments.
Zardari reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to collaborating with the international community to promote global peace and prosperity, noting the country’s recognized role in fostering stability. He acknowledged the contributions of the field marshal, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi in the US-Iran ceasefire efforts.
The president strongly condemned the situation in Gaza, labeling the Palestinian genocide as unacceptable. He rejected the notion of a Greater Israel and reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast support for the Palestinian cause.
Finally, Zardari called for increased focus on social sectors, particularly education, to secure sustainable development and prosperity for Pakistan.
