President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have paid heartfelt tribute to the martyrs and veterans of Pakistan's Armed Forces on the occasion of Defence and Martyrs Day.

In their separate messages, they said 6th September reminds us that when a nation stands united in defence of its freedom, sovereignty and homeland, no power can defeat its resolve.

President Asif Ali Zardari said the unity and spirit of faith demonstrated by our Armed Forces and the Pakistani nation on 6th September, 1965 remain a manifestation of our collective strength.  

He said international community must recognise that lasting peace in South Asia cannot be achieved without resolution of the Kashmir issue as per UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the people of Kashmir.  

In his message, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the Government will continue to take resolute measures to strengthen Pakistan's security, sovereignty and defence, while simultaneously advancing economic development, political stability and public welfare.

Chief of the Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Air Chief Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and Commander National Strategic Command General Syed Aamer Raza have paid profound tribute to the martyrs and veterans of armed forces on Defence and Martyrs' Day.

In a statement, the ISPR said the Shuhada of Pakistan embody the highest ideals of honour, duty and sacrifice.

The statement said the Armed Forces of Pakistan remain fully prepared to defend the country's sovereignty, territorial integrity and national interests.