Salutes, smiles and solidarity: Rare display of Shehbaz Sharif’s vision of institutional harmony

ISLAMABAD: The political and military elite witnessed a rare display of mutual respect and understanding on Friday night, as the President, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and the Field Marshal stood side by side in a show of unity.

The high-profile dinner, hosted by the Field Marshal, celebrated Pakistan’s military victory over India during the recently concluded Operation Bunyanum Marsoos.

In a gesture that drew admiration from all present, the Field Marshal -- although not wearing a cap, as it was not required -- saluted both the President and the Prime Minister upon their arrival and again at their departure.

The salutes were seen as symbolic of the respect and institutional harmony.

The event brought together a distinguished gathering of the country’s top leadership -- with senior political figures, general officers from all three armed services, and heads of constitutional institutions in attendance. Such a broad-based civil-military assembly is rare and underscored the significance of the occasion.

“This was also a rare moment for the premier as his political vision of institutional harmony stood realised and his stance vindicated,” commented one of the participants.

He observed that the Prime Minister enjoyed clear admiration in military circles -- a reflection of his longstanding image as a hardworking administrator, a doer, and a go-getter. At one point during the evening, a round of applause broke out for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, highlighting the strong rapport he shares with the armed forces.

While the President remained seated for most of the event due to health reasons, Prime Minister Sharif was seen informally engaging with senior military officers, exchanging pleasantries and light-hearted conversation in a relaxed and cordial atmosphere.

The evening also featured the presentation of commemorative gifts by the Field Marshal and other senior military commanders to key national leaders, including the President, Prime Minister, Chairman Senate, Speaker National Assembly, and others -- a gesture seen as a token of appreciation and unity.

The dinner was hosted to honour not only the political leadership but also the steadfast commitment of the armed forces and indomitable spirit of the people of Pakistan, as demonstrated during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, a defining moment in the country’s defence history. According to the source, the evening concluded in a display of renewed resolve, with civil and military leadership united.