Pakistan honours Defence and Martyrs Day at London ceremony

LONDON:Pakistan’s High Commission in London marked Defence and Martyrs Day with a solemn ceremony on Monday, paying tribute to the country’s armed forces and the sacrifices of its martyrs while reaffirming Islamabad’s commitment to regional peace and stronger defence cooperation with the United Kingdom.

The event was attended by former Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General (Retd) Zubair Mahmood Hayat as chief guest, alongside British parliamentarians, senior government officials, ambassadors, defence attachés, media representatives and members of the Pakistani community.

Addressing the gathering, Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Tipu Usman, praised the courage, professionalism and sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces, saying the nation remained united in honouring those who laid down their lives in defence of the country.

He said the world had witnessed Pakistan’s resolve and military capability during the Battle for Truth, adding that the country’s political and military leadership, backed by the unwavering support of the Pakistani people, had once again demonstrated their determination to safeguard national sovereignty.

Referring to Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, the High Commissioner said its success had added another significant chapter to Pakistan’s military history and further strengthened national unity and confidence.

Tipu Usman also highlighted Pakistan’s internationally recognised mediation efforts in the Middle East and said the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye reflected Islamabad’s commitment to regional peace, security and stability.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to expand defence and security cooperation with the United Kingdom and reiterated the country’s continued political, moral and diplomatic support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

Participants at the ceremony also paid tribute to the professionalism, dedication and sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces and reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty and national security.