Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday announced the formation of the Army Rocket Force Command, saying it would further enhance the country’s combat capabilities.

Speaking at a grand ceremony at Islamabad’s Jinnah Ground to mark the 78th Independence Day, he said the force — equipped with modern technology and capable of striking the enemy from all directions — would be another milestone in strengthening Pakistan’s conventional military power.

He said Pakistan’s triumph in the Marka-e-Haq had taught India “a lesson their generations will remember until the end of time.”

The prime minister said the victory in the Marka-e-Haq proved that “the freedom our forefathers achieved through immense sacrifice will be safeguarded with full capability and resolve.”

The prime minister also invited all political parties to join the “Charter of Stability”, saying it is not only an economic pact but also a matter of national interest.

He said the proposed charter was not merely an economic revival plan but a framework based on broader national interest.

‘Marka-e-Haq’ — a defining moment

PM Shehbaz congratulated the nation on completing 78 years of independence, noting that the day was steeped in history and marked by the sacrifices of martyrs.

He said Marka-e-Haq was not merely a battle for freedom but “a victory for the Two-Nation Theory.”

He said India launched an unprovoked attack on Pakistan based on false accusations, believing its military might could subdue the country.

“But they forgot wars are not won by weapons alone — they require fearless sons willing to risk their lives,” he said.

Within four days, he added, India’s pride was “shattered into dust” by a military backed by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Gen Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Babar, and Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf — “leaders whose courage and skill led soldiers to teach India a historic lesson.”

A nation united for defence

Sharif lauded the bravery of Pakistan’s troops, saying their mothers send them to the battlefield with prayers to protect the nation’s honour at all costs.

“Such a nation can never be defeated,” he said.

He credited Field Marshal Asim Munir’s “brilliant and bold strategy” for neutralising India’s aggression.

He added that just as a new independent state was born on August 14, 1947, a new nation emerged on May 10, 2025.

The Marka-e-Haq proved that the freedom won through the sacrifices of our forefathers can be fully defended with our capability and strength.

The premier emphasised Pakistan’s nuclear capability as a purely defensive measure against India’s arsenal, reaffirming a commitment to peace but readiness for defence.

Diplomatic support and future stability

PM Shehbaz thanked Pakistan’s allies — including China, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, UAE, Iran, and Azerbaijan — for standing by the country diplomatically during the conflict.

He also acknowledged US President Donald Trump’s role in brokering a ceasefire and expressed hope Trump would work towards resolving the Kashmir dispute per UN resolutions.

Ceremony highlights

The ceremony began with the recitation of the Holy Quran and the national anthem, followed by an impressive march-past by contingents from the Pakistan Army, Navy, Air Force, Punjab Rangers, and FC. SSG commandos, and units from Türkiye and Azerbaijan, also participated.

President Asif Ali Zardari, PM Shehbaz Sharif, and Field Marshal Asim Munir led the salute to the national flag.

Pakistan Air Force aircraft performed aerial manoeuvres, drawing cheers of “Pakistan Zindabad” from the crowd.

A special enclosure hosted Pakistan’s “heroes” from various walks of life, while performances by famed drummer Gumby and singer Shafqat Amanat Ali added to the festive spirit.

Across the country, streets and neighbourhoods were adorned with green and white flags. At Shakarparian Parade Ground, military equipment used in Marka-e-Haq was put on public display.

National Assembly resolution

Meanwhile, the National Assembly passed a unanimous resolution honouring those who laid down their lives for the country, praising the armed forces’ defence of the nation, and urging all citizens to work for Pakistan’s prosperity and unity.