To
commemorate the ultimate sacrifices rendered by valiant Pakistan’s Armed Forces
during the 1965 war, the High Commission of Pakistan in Sri Lanka celebrated
Pakistan’s 52nd Defence Day in Colombo, last evening, says a press release
received here today from Colombo.
The
Defence Advisor of Pakistan, Col. Sajjad Ali in his welcome address highlighted
the role of Armed forces in largely eliminating the scourge of extremism and
terrorism from the soil of Pakistan and bringing peace and stability in the
country. National anthems of both brotherly countries were played by a
decorated Sri Lanka Navy band.
State
Minister of Defence Hon. Ruwan Wijewardene graced the occasion as the Chief
Guest.
The
Acting High Commissioner of Pakistan, Dr. Sarfraz Ahmed Khan Sipra read out the
message of the President of Pakistan. In his message, President Mamnoon Hussain
stressed to imbibe the spirit of September 6 as the country is confronting with
the challenges of extremism and terrorism. The President said that no nation in
the world has paid a heavy price in terms of property and precious lives as the
people of Pakistan in the fight against terrorism.
President
Mamnoon Hussain emphasized that the Government of Pakistan, with the support of
entire political spectrum and people, has launched National Action Plan under
which the armed forces and law enforcement agencies are successfully rooting
out the menace of terrorism and extremism from the country. Operation Ruddul
Fassad, an extension of operation Zarb-e-Azb is progressing successfully and
will continue till the last terrorist is eliminated, he added. The President
declared resolve to revive the spirit of unity of September 6 in meeting new
challenges and make Pakistan one of the greatest nations of the world.
After
reading out the message of the President of Pakistan, Dr. Sarfraz Sipra
expressed his gratitude to the guests who had spared time to express their
solidarity with Pakistan through their presence.
The
Chief Guest, State Minister of Defence, Hon. Ruwan Wijewardene, in his remarks,
said that the relations between the two countries, over a period of time, have
gained strength in all spheres and domains. History of relationship and
friendship between Pakistan and Sri Lanka is as long as their inception. Sri
Lanka can never forget Pakistan’s continuous and unconditional support during
war against LTTE, he underscored.
Hon.
Ruwan Wijewardene said that Pakistan paid a very high cost in eliminating
terrorism from its soil since one and half decade. Sri Lanka is firmly standing
with Pakistani brethren and wish that any remaining problems faced by them are
eliminated as soon as possible.
Later,
the Chief Guest along with Commanders of Sri Lanka Army, Navy, Acting High
Commissioner and Defense Advisor cut the cake on the occasion.
The day
is observed on 6th September every year nationally and abroad with great
fervour to pay homage to the martyrs and their families who gave supreme
sacrifices for the defense of their motherland during the Pakistan-India War in
1965.
The
event was attended by a large gathering including Sri Lankan Government
Ministers, Commanders of Sri Lanka Army and Navy, High
Commissioners/Ambassadors, senior most officers of Armed Forces of Sri Lanka,
Government officials, Pakistani community and important personalities from
different walks of life.
