The High Commission for Pakistan in London held an impressive ceremony to commemorate the Defence and Martyr’s Day of Pakistan. The event was attended by a large number of distinguished guests, including Parliamentarians, Diplomats, Defence Attaches from 51 countries.

The High Commissioner of Pakistan to UK, Dr Mohammad Faisal while highlighting the significance of the occasion, stated that it calls upon every Pakistani to renew the spirit of loyalty and service to our beloved motherland. Paying glowing tribute to the martyrs and brave sons of the soil, he said that their sacrifices were a source of strength for the nation to be more resilient in the face of challenges.

Dr. Mohammad Faisal emphasized the important role played by armed forces in strengthening defence & security of Pakistan. He stated that the world also acknowledges the professionalism of our forces in maintaining peace in various countries while deployed in UN Peacekeeping missions.

On the occasion, it was resolved to continue political, moral and diplomatic support for the Kashmiri brothers & sisters facing unprecedented human rights violation by forces in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir.

It was pledged that the entire nation stands united, alongside the Pakistan Defence Forces to thwart all kinds of nefarious designs and to protect the sovereignty of Pakistan at all costs.

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, SJ narrated the eye witness account of 6th September, 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 Capt 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 Peshawar attack, narrated the support provided by Armed forces and the entire nation that helped him achieve great academic success. Amir Khan, former World Boxing Champion proudly spoke about his Honorary Captain rank bestowed by Pakistan Army and his vision to promote sports and philanthropy in Pakistan.

Defence & Naval Adviser, Commodore Muhammad Zeeshan Nabi, spoke about the sacrifices rendered by our 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 & Air Adviser Colonel Taimur Rahat conducted the event and gave summarized valour accounts of 1965 war, APS Peshawar attack, Badabher attack and sanitization operations conducted in the tribal areas of KPK. 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. He also spoke on the value of unity, faith and discipline to confront the diversity of challenges that we encounter. Col Taimur referred to the practice of nobility, piety and faithfulness of our officers and soldiers as being the force multipliers in their endeavours.

At the end, live music performance with patriotic songs provided further value to the event. 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