To commemorate the ultimate sacrifices rendered by the valiant Armed Forces of Pakistan during the 1965 war, the High Commission of Pakistan in Sri Lanka celebrated Pakistan’s 52nd Defence Day in Colombo, on September 6 evening.
The Defence Advisor of Pakistan, Col. Sajjad Ali in his welcome address highlighted the role of the Armed forces in eliminating the scourge of extremism and terrorism from the soil of Pakistan and bringing peace and stability to the country.
The National anthems of both countries were played by a decorated Sri Lanka Navy band.
The State Minister of Defence, Ruwan Wijewardene graced the occasion as 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 confronts the challenges of extremism and terrorism.
The President said, no nation in the world has paid such a heavy price in terms of property and precious lives as the people of Pakistan has, in the fight against terrorism. President Mamnoon Hussain emphasized that the Government of Pakistan, with the support of the entire political spectrum and its people, has launched a 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 resolved 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, Dr. Sarfraz Sipra expressed his gratitude to the guests who had spared their time to express solidarity with Pakistan by their presence.
The Chief Guest, State Minister of Defence, Ruwan Wijewardene, in his remarks, said, the relations between the two countries, over a period of time, have gained strength in all spheres.
The history of the relationship and friendship between Pakistan and Sri Lanka is as long as their origin. Sri Lanka can never forget Pakistan’s continuous and unconditional support during the war against the LTTE, he underscored.
Later, the Chief Guest along with the Commanders of the Sri Lanka Army, Navy, Acting High Commissioner and Defence Advisor cut the cake to celebrate the occasion.