On Friday, Pakistan is commemorating Youm-e-Tashakur (Day of Gratitude) nationwide to honour the valor of its armed forces and citizens in securing a historic triumph in Marka-e-Haq against India.
The day began with Quran recitations and special prayers held in mosques across the country. A 31-gun salute was fired in Islamabad, while provincial capitals observed 21-gun salutes in tribute.
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Ceremonial events, including the changing of guards, are being conducted at the mausoleums of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Iqbal. Flag-hoisting ceremonies are also taking place in both federal and provincial capitals. Wreaths are being laid at Yadgaar-e-Shuhada to pay homage to the fallen heroes, and families of martyrs from Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos are being visited in remembrance of their sacrifice.
The day’s central ceremony will be held at the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad on Friday night, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as the chief guest. Top military officials, including the Chief of Army Staff and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, are expected to attend.
President Zardari’s Message
President Asif Ali Zardari, in his message, expressed deep gratitude to Allah for the nation’s victory in response to India’s unprovoked aggression. He extended heartfelt appreciation to Pakistan’s armed forces and their leadership, acknowledging the strategic brilliance of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, the Army, Air Force, and Navy.
He emphasized that this victory is shared not just by the military but by the entire Pakistani nation, which stood firm like a united fortress against the enemy. The President praised the discipline, precision, and strength displayed by the armed forces and highlighted the global recognition of Pakistan’s restraint and operational excellence.
He reaffirmed that while Pakistan is a peace-loving country with no hostile intentions, it will never compromise on its sovereignty or vital interests. Any aggression will be met with full force.
On the matter of water rights, the President stated Pakistan’s outright rejection of any unilateral withdrawal from the Indus Water Treaty, pledging that the country will employ all necessary means to protect its resources.
He concluded by expressing eternal gratitude to the brave soldiers who defended the nation and reaffirmed the nation’s unwavering support for its military, vowing that Pakistan will always stand united in safeguarding its territorial integrity.
