On the occasion of the country’s 78th Independence Day, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir extended his heartfelt congratulations to the nation and paid tribute to Muslims of the subcontinent whose sacrifices led to the creation of Pakistan.

In a special message, the army chief emphasised that Pakistan is not only a strong and invincible fortress of the Islamic world, but it is also a shining example of interfaith harmony and religious freedom, where religious minorities continue to play a vital role in the country’s development.

The Field Marshal said that Pakistan has made immense human and financial sacrifices in its fight against terrorism.

Referring to the Pahalgam incident, he said that Pakistan not only strongly condemned it but also offered a transparent international investigation.

He said that the Indian government, displaying traditional stubbornness, targeted the civilian population in Pakistan.

However, with the nation’s support, the armed forces gave a befitting response to the Indian aggression and launched Operation Banyan-um-Marsoos, which has become a symbol of the military’s courage and bravery and spirited resolve in the country’s history.

Field Marshal Asim Munir affirmed that the Pakistan Army is fully prepared and equipped to counter conventional, non-conventional and hybrid threats.

“We desire peace, development, and prosperity in the region,” he said, adding, “but we will never compromise on our independence or sovereignty, and any attempt to harm the country’s integrity will be responded to with an immediate and resolute response.”

Reiterating unwavering support for the oppressed people of Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, the army chief declared that Pakistan will continue to support their just struggle.

He said that giving the Kashmiris their right to self-determination is the only just and lasting solution to the Kashmir issue.

The army chief also expressed solidarity with the oppressed people of Palestine and urged the international community to take immediate steps to protect the rights of the Palestinians.

Paying homage to all martyrs of the freedom struggle, he said, “Their courage, bravery, and unwavering faith continue to guide our path.”

The Field Marshal reaffirmed his full confidence in the professionalism and combat readiness of the Pakistan Army and said that no sacrifice will be spared in defending the nation’s borders.

“We will dedicate all our energies to the stability and progress of Pakistan,” he stated.