'Peace must never be mistaken for weakness’: Armed forces reiterate commitment to sovereignty on Defence Day

Pakistan’s armed forces on Sunday reaffirmed their readiness to defend the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, warning that any aggression would be met with a “swift and decisive response”.

The statement was issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military’s media wing, on the occasion of the 61st Defence and Martyrs’ Day.

Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and Commander National Strategic Command General Syed Aamer Raza paid tribute to Pakistan’s martyrs, along with personnel of the armed forces.

According to ISPR, the armed forces remain “fully prepared” to safeguard Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national interests.

The military said Pakistan remained committed to “peace, stability and prosperity in the region”, as well as “responsible conduct and peaceful coexistence”.

“This commitment, however, must never be mistaken for weakness,” the ISPR statement said, adding that any aggression against Pakistan would receive a “swift and decisive response”.

The military leadership paid tribute to the martyrs and expressed respect and gratitude to the Ghazis and families of those who died in the line of duty.

ISPR described September 6 as an “enduring symbol of national unity, courage and resolve”, recalling the nation’s response during the 1965 war.

“The Shuhada of Pakistan embody the highest ideals of honour, duty and sacrifice,” the statement said, paying tribute to generations of defenders who made sacrifices on the battlefields, in the skies and at sea.

The armed forces also acknowledged the resilience of the families of the martyrs and praised the Ghazis for their service in guarding the country’s frontiers.

On Defence and Martyrs’ Day, the military leadership renewed its pledge of “unwavering devotion” to Pakistan and its people.

“The supreme sacrifices of our Shuhada, the spirit of our Ghazis and the fortitude of their families will forever remain a source of national strength and pride,” ISPR said.