ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has said that Pakistan has emerged as a symbol of balance and stability in the region due to the efforts of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, in a message marking the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq.
In an official statement issued by the Aiwan-e-Sadr, the president paid tribute to the nation and the armed forces, praising the leadership, strategy, and decisive actions of Field Marshal Asim Munir, which he said played a key role in the success of the operation.
He also commended Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, appreciating the exceptional professionalism and operational excellence of the Pakistan Air Force, while acknowledging the Pakistan Navy under Admiral Naveed Ashraf for its readiness and strong defence capabilities.
President Zardari said Pakistan is a responsible and peace-loving state that has demonstrated its defensive strength to the world through a firm yet measured response to aggression.
He reiterated that the issue of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) must be resolved in accordance with United Nations resolutions, adding that Pakistan will continue to extend moral, political, and diplomatic support to the Kashmiri people.
He further described India’s alleged suspension efforts regarding the Indus Waters Treaty as “water aggression,” stressing that water remains a vital lifeline for millions of Pakistanis.
The president also urged Afghanistan to ensure its territory is not used for terrorism against Pakistan or other regional countries, calling the elimination of externally backed terrorism essential for regional peace.
He noted that Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts for the peaceful resolution of the Iran–US tensions have been widely appreciated at the international level.
Concluding his message, President Zardari reaffirmed that the people of Pakistan and the armed forces remain fully prepared to defend the country and respond to all challenges.
