Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that September 6 is an important day in Pakistan’s history.
He said the day reminds the nation of the courage, unity and sacrifices shown by the armed forces and the people to defend the country.
In his message for Defence and Martyrs’ Day 2026, the prime minister paid tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives while protecting Pakistan.
He also praised the veterans who served the country and defended its security, freedom and sovereignty.
Pakistan’s response in the 1965 war
Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan faced an attack on September 6, 1965. He said the armed forces stood against the enemy despite its larger numbers.
He said Pakistani forces used their training and military skills to defend the country on every front.
The prime minister also praised the people of Pakistan for standing with the armed forces. He said the nation showed unity, courage and determination during the war.
Reference to the recent conflict
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, Pakistan’s armed forces continued this tradition of courage during the recent conflict.
Shehbaz Sharif said the forces gave a strong response through professional planning and strategy under the Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf.
Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos
The prime minister said the whole nation is proud of the Pakistan Army, Air Force and Navy.
He said the success of Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos has added another important chapter to Pakistan’s military history.
Pakistan supports regional peace
The prime minister said Pakistan will continue to play a positive role in promoting peace and stability in the region and around the world.
He said Pakistan will continue to work for regional peace and security as a responsible country.
Shehbaz Sharif said the Makkah joint defence agreement shows Pakistan’s growing role in regional security.
PM stresses Kashmir solution
The prime minister said lasting peace in South Asia is not possible without a fair and lasting solution to the Kashmir issue.
He said the solution must follow United Nations resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people.
Shehbaz Sharif recalled that Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah had called Kashmir Pakistan’s jugular vein.