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Tuesday July 22, 2025

Governor for renewed pledge to make Pakistan a dynamic state

By our correspondents
September 07, 2016

Defence Day of Pakistan celebrated

LAHORE

Punjab Governor Malik Muhammad Rafique Rajwana has said that we need to pledge again in our hearts that we will not hesitate to undertake any endeavour for peace and security of our beloved homeland, and strengthen ourselves to rise above all differences to make Pakistan a truly dynamic, prosperous state, where citizen can live in peace and harmony. 

According to a handout issued on Tuesday, the governor stated by this while addressing at PAF Base, Lahore on the occasion of Defence Day celebrations. 

 

Speaking on the occasion, the governor said it was a matter of great pride for him to be here at National Defence Day to witness the great resolve of Pakistani nation in general and PAF in particular. He said that he would like to share his feelings of pride and satisfaction. It was on this historic day, 51 years ago, when the entire Pakistani nation rose and found dignity and bliss in the noble cause of national defence. The Defence Day of Pakistan rekindles memories of the great heroes and martyrs of 1965 War in our hearts, who resolutely stood in the face of heavy odds to successfully counter any adversary that enjoyed overwhelming numerical advantage. He said the Defence Forces of Pakistan had always vigilantly guarded the sovereign land, sea and air frontiers of Pakistan. 

He said, today, PAF is playing pivotal role in operation Zarb-e-Azb, the terrorists are on the run. By the grace of Allah, we will defeat this enemy as well, he added. 

On this occasion, an impressive aerial display by PAF fighter jets enthralled the visitors. Ultra light and aero-modelling aircraft display was also a source of enthusiasm for the spectators. PAF aircraft, including JF-17 Thunder, F-16, Mirage and F-7P, in addition to ground support and other auxiliary equipment were put on display. Other stalls included Pakistan Air Force Women Association, PAF Books, Aviation Art Gallery, Historical War Pictures and other souvenirs.

Documentary films about the PAF history were also shown. The events were attended by a large number of retired PAF officers, JCOs, NCOs and Airmen of Pakistan Air Force high-profiled civil/military officers and other dignitaries. Students from various educational institutes of Lahore were also invited to witness the aerial and ground display of PAF aircraft and equipment. 

Earlier, Punjab governor was received by Air Vice-Marshal Jawad Saeed, Air Officer Commanding, Central Air Command, PAF and Air Commodore Salman Mehboob, Base Commander PAF Base, Lahore. 

Campuses: Educational institutions of the provincial metropolis on Tuesday organised ceremonies to commemorate 1965 War sacrifices on Defence Day.

At Punjab University, various departments organised several events to observe Defence Day with fervor. Punjab University College of Earth and Environmental Sciences (CEES) organised a debate competition while documentaries were also screened showing the valour of Pakistan Army. Principal CEES Prof Dr Sajid Rashid Ahmad and guest speaker Major Nasir from Pakistan Army addressed the participants highlighting the importance of Pakistan Defence Day. The event was attended by a large number of students. 

Meanwhile, PU Centre for Clinical Psychology (CCP) organised an event in which students presented documentary, poems, national songs, speeches and dramas to pay tribute to the martyrs and Ghazis of Pakistani forces. The students also made human flag to express unity. Director CCP Prof Dr Rukhsana Kausar appreciated efforts of the students and teachers. The event was concluded with the prayers for country’s safety and prosperity.

University of Engineering and Technology (UET) also organised an event to mark the day. Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Fazal Ahmad Khalid in his message said Pakistan is a peace-loving country and it has capability to give full response to its enemy through strategy. In the end, a walk was also held which was attended by students and teachers. 

PTI: Paying tributes to the martyrs and ghazis of 1965 War, PTI West-Punjab president Ch Muhammad Ashfaq Tuesday said the history of Pakistan is a clear testimony of bravery and gallantry of the armed forces who are again displaying the same professionalism in Operation Zarb-e-Azb against terrorists. 

Addressing the party office-bearers and workers at a function held in connection with Defence Day of Pakistan, the PTI leader pointed out that it was the true spirit of patriotism of our armed forces and the entire nation that defeated an enemy that was three times bigger in the war. He said September 6 was an important day in Pakistan’s history, when it repulsed the enemy’s attack and inflicted heavy losses on it.

Ch Ashfaq, former MNA, said the Defence Day besides highlighting and reminding us the great sacrifices and heroic acts of our brave armed forces also reminds us our duties and responsibilities towards this country and its people.

“It reminds us of our internal instabilities and glitches and our role in national unity and harmony. Time and again, these days remind us, that if today we are united in our paths, we can still witness the miracles that were seen during the 1965 Indo-Pak war” he said. 

National unity, harmony and discipline among the ranks and files, prioritization of certain tasks and responsibilities may lead us towards a prosperous Pakistan. More than 50,000 Pakistanis from civilians and armed forces have laid down their lives and the nation suffered a colossal economic loss of $80 billion during the war against terror, he said.

“This is time to salute our armed forces who are defending our geographical borders fearlessly and sacrificing their life and limbs in the war against terror. Extremism and terrorism are as much grim threats to our country as the enemies who are against our ideology,” he added.

He said Pakistan has always given a befitting response in case of any threat to its sovereignty and peace. He made it clear that Pakistan is a peace loving country and desires cordial relations with all the countries.