RAWALPINDI: President Asif Ali Zardari Saturday lauded the exemplary conduct and professional excellence of Pakistan armed forces in the successful execution of Marka-e-Haq, acknowledging their resolute determination and unshakable courage in the face of unprovoked aggression.
President Zardari visited the Gujranwala Cantonment on Saturday, along with Interior Minister Mohsin Raza Naqvi, and was received by Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, and commanders of Mangla and Gujranwala Corps.
The president paid tribute to the military and civilian martyrs, who laid down their lives in defence of the motherland, affirming that their sacrifice remains a sacred trust and a source of enduring national pride. He underscored that the sons of the soil, fortified by the enduring spirit of the nation, stood with unwavering resolve to defend the motherland and thwarted hostile designs with exceptional valour and operational acumen.
He remarked that history would bear witness to how, within a matter of hours, the Pakistan armed forces repelled aggression with unmatched precision and resolve, sending an unequivocal message of Pakistan’s strength, resilience and national unity.
During his interaction with officers and troops, the president commended their exemplary morale, combat readiness and devotion to duty. He extended heartfelt congratulations on the successful culmination of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, and expressed profound pride in the defenders of the nation, affirming that the people of Pakistan hold their brave soldiers in the highest esteem as the true custodians of national honour and sovereignty.
Separately, Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PMLN) President Nawaz Sharif lauded professionalism and bravery of the armed forces, who defended the motherland like an iron wall against Indian aggression. “We offer our deepest gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting us success,” he said during a meeting with PMLN Parliamentary Leader in the Senate and Chairman of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs Senator Irfan Siddiqui, who called on him at his Jati Umra residence in Lahore suburbs.
Nawaz also lauded the role of parliament saying that setting aside all political differences and speaking with one voice for the sake of national security is a welcome and commendable step. “By reflecting the emotions of 240 million citizens, the people’s representatives boosted the spirit of brave armed forces,” he said. He also commended the Pakistani media for presenting the truth before the world and exposing the enemy’s falsehoods.
Senator Siddiqui briefed the PMLN president on the parliamentary party’s performance during the session. Nawaz underscored the importance of institutional collaboration, stating that parliament’s unified stance had reinforced national resolve and showcased Pakistan’s democratic maturity in times of crisis.
Meanwhile, a wave of patriotism and deep respect swept through the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Saturday afternoon as rich tributes were paid to the valiant Pakistan Armed Forces for their unparalleled courage, resilience, and sacrifices. The emotionally stirring ceremony came ahead of the much-anticipated restart of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season X.
The electrifying atmosphere reached its peak with the arrival of Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, whose presence infused the event with an even greater sense of pride and patriotism. The stadium, brimming with thousands of passionate spectators, erupted into thunderous chants of “Pakistan Zindabad! Armed Forces Zindabad!” as the crowd rose to their feet in a powerful display of unity and national spirit. Accompanied by the Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmad Sharif, the Army Chief acknowledged the crowd’s fervent admiration with warm waves and a resolute smile, a gesture that deeply resonated with the sea of waving flags and cheering voices.
The emotional crescendo seamlessly transitioned into a breathtaking spectacle as fireworks ignited the night sky, painting it in dazzling hues of green and white. The stadium shimmered under the lights, echoing with pride, patriotism, and the unbreakable bond between the people and their defenders. It was a moment etched in history — an unforgettable celebration of national unity, strength, and gratitude for the Armed Forces of Pakistan.
Earlier, before the restart of the PSL, Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Mohsin Naqvi, flanked by players from Karachi Kings and Peshawar Zalmi, paid homage to the armed forces. They lauded the military’s indomitable heroism and unwavering resolve in defending the nation’s honor, courageously dismantling threat with unmatched fortitude and skill.
As the national anthem echoed through the nearly packed stadium, thousands of fans rose to their feet in solemn respect, turning the venue into a sea of unity and reverence. Flags fluttered proudly, chants of “Pakistan Zindabad” reverberated across the stands, and emotions ran high in a powerful display of national solidarity.
The tribute extended beyond the armed forces to honor the brave martyrs who laid down their lives in service of the homeland. Their sacrifices, etched into the nation’s collective memory, were remembered with teary eyes and proud hearts.
