PM Shehbaz Sharif Affirms Pakistan’s Peaceful Stance, Warns of Strong Defence

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday stated that although Pakistan is a peaceful country, it retains the right to provide a “befitting response” in defence. His statement came as the nation observed Youm-e-Tashakur (Day of Thanks) to commemorate its armed forces.

India and Pakistan came to an agreement on May 10 to wrap up a four-day-long military standoff characterized by intense cross-border missile and drone exchanges.

Nationwide Celebrations and Tributes to Armed Forces

As reported by state-owned Radio Pakistan, the day started with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad and a 21-gun salute in provincial capitals. Special prayers were said, and rallies were conducted across the country to show solidarity with the armed forces.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif raised the national flag at the Prime Minister’s House in Islamabad as part of the ‘Youm-e-Tashakkur’ ceremony.

“Pakistan is a peaceful country, but it reserves the right to give a befitting response in its defence,” he said, referring to the recent military confrontation with India.

He praised the armed forces for responding “befittingly and effectively” and said they had written a “golden chapter” in the country’s military history.

Tribute to Fallen Soldiers and Support for the Wounded

Shehbaz Sharif visited the residence of squadron leader Usman Yousaf, who was martyred in the recent Indian aggression, as per the state-owned Associated Press of Pakistan.

It was visited by defence minister Khawaja Asif, army chief general Asim Munir, and information minister Attaullah Tarar.

The prime minister condoled the mourning family and prayed for the deceased officer. He later went to visit the Combined Military Hospital in Rawalpindi to inquire about the health of soldiers and civilians wounded during the attacks.

Leaders Reaffirm Pakistan’s Commitment to Sovereignty

‘Youm-e-Tashakkur’ was celebrated for the second time ever since the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, the first of which was observed on Sunday through countrywide rallies in favor of the armed forces.

“Pakistan will never compromise on its sovereignty, territorial integrity and core national interests,” Pakistan president Asif Ali Zardari said during the day’s events.

At the same time, deputy prime minister and foreign minister Ishaq Dar justified Pakistan’s actions, explaining that the nation replied to India’s “unprovoked” aggression by exercising its right of self-defence.

Dar made the observation during a meeting with British foreign secretary David Lammy at the ministry of foreign affairs. The two leaders discussed the recent South Asian tensions and the ceasefire arrangement between India and Pakistan, a foreign office statement said.