Defence Day calls upon every Pakistani to renew spirit of loyalty: Pakistan's UK envoy

LONDON: Pakistan's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Dr Mohammad Faisal, has stated that the Defence and Martyr's Day calls upon every Pakistani to renew the spirit of loyalty and service to their beloved motherland.

His remarks came after he paid his respects to the Pakistan Armed Forces and the martyrs while addressing a room full of distinguished guests at an event to commemorate the Defence and Martyr's Day of Pakistan at a hotel in Central London. 

The large number of guests who attended the event included parliamentarians, diplomats and defence attaches from 51 countries.

Paying a glowing tribute to the martyrs and brave sons of the soil, Faisal said that their sacrifices were a source of strength for the nation to be more resilient in the face of challenges. 

He emphasised the important role played by armed forces in strengthening the defence and security of Pakistan. He stated that the "world also acknowledges the professionalism of our forces in maintaining peace in various countries while deployed on United Nations peace-keeping missions".

Highlight of the event was the opportunity provided to families of martyrs who signified the spirit of sacrifice and the value of a cohesive, unified and tolerant Pakistan. 

They were invited as special guests of honour on the event. 

Families of martyrs fondly cherished the associated memories, nobility, valour and spirit of their bravehearts. 

Brigadier (retd) Saeed Ismat narrated the eye witness account of September 6, 1965, war. He shared the spirit of the people of Pakistan in 1965 war. 

Widow of Lt Col Sheraz Shaheed (Khyber Agency 2011) and brother of Captain Isfandyar Bokhari Shaheed (Badabher 2015) acknowledged the immense support extended by Pakistan Army to the families of martyrs.

Ahmad Nawaz, former president of Oxford Students Union and survivor of Army Public School (APS) Peshawar attack, narrated the support provided by armed forces and the entire nation that helped him achieve great academic success. 

The event was also attended by former World Boxing Champion Amir Khan who proudly spoke about his Honorary Captain rank bestowed by Pakistan Army and his vision to promote sports and philanthropy in Pakistan.

Defence and Naval Adviser, Commodore Muhammad Zeeshan Nabi, spoke about the sacrifices rendered by the armed forces in every theatre of war since 1947. 

He assured the audience of the impregnable defensibility of Pakistan and the vigilance exercised by every officer and soldier of Pakistan armed forces to ensure our territorial sovereignty. 

Commodore Zeeshan also highlighted the meaningfulness of leadership and followership being the forte of Pakistan armed forces.

Army and Air Adviser Colonel Taimur Rahat conducted the event and gave summarised valour accounts of 1965 war, APS Peshawar attack, Badabher attack and sanitisation operations conducted in the tribal areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

He highlighted the challenges of 4th/5th Generation Warfare and reiterated the awareness, capability, adaptability and readiness of Pakistan Armed Forces to confront these challenges in any domain and any spectrum of warfare.

Colonel Taimur Rahat also spoke on the value of unity, faith and discipline to confront the diversity of challenges that we encounter. He referred to the practice of nobility, piety and faithfulness of our officers and soldiers as being the force multipliers in their endeavours.

Furthermore, souvenirs were presented to families of martyrs on behalf of Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir. 

Diplomats from various countries also paid glowing tributes to the dedication and professionalism of Pakistan armed forces. They acknowledged the sacrifices made by Pakistan against diverse challenges and warmly interacted with the families of martyrs.