Remarks by Ambassador Sohail Mahmood on the occasion of 50th Defence Day of Pakistan, Ankara, 19 October 2015

Excellency Mr. Vecdi Gonul, Minister for National Defence
Admiral Bulent Bostanoglu, Commander of the Turkish Naval Forces Command,
Senior Officers of the Turkish Armed Forces
Distinguished Members of the Attache Corps
Honourable Guests
Ladies and Gentlemen!

Asslam-o-Alaikum and Good evening.

Let me begin by reiterating our profound sympathies and condolences to the brotherly people and government of Turkey over the loss of precious lives in the terrorist attack in Ankara on 10 October.

We pray for the martyrs, and wish the speediest recovery for the injured.

Like always, Pakistan remains in strong solidarity with Turkey.

Allow me also to extend a warm welcome to all our distinguished guests at this reception -- marking the 50th Defence Day of Pakistan. You have honoured us by gracing this occasion.

The Defence Day is celebrated every year to pay tribute to the heroic effort of the Pakistan armed forces in defending the motherland, after a massive aggression was launched against us in the dark of the night.

On 6 September 1965, the State of Pakistan was faced with the most severe existential challenge.

But, with the grace of the Almighty, and the steely resolve of the defenders of Pakistan, these aggressive designs were effectively thwarted.

In a herculean effort that lasted 17 days, our soldiers, sailors and airmen fought all odds including inferior numbers and insufficient equipment and emerged successful. 

This outcome was possible due to the supreme courage, bravery and sacrifices of our armed forces, backed solidly by the unstinting support of the nation.

Ever since, the armed forces of Pakistan have been engaged in defending the country against all threats to its national security – be they external or internal.

Their professional preparedness remains at its peak, against all possible contingencies.

At present, the Pakistan armed forces are waging a decisive battle against the forces of extremism and terrorism.
Impressive results have been achieved through the operation Zarb-e-Azb, which will continue till the complete elimination of this scourge.

Besides providing security, the Pakistan armed forces help the nation cope with the disastrous consequences of natural calamities as well.

Whether it was the devastating earthquake of 2005 or biblical floods of 2010, their services in saving lives and providing support for immediate relief, rehabilitation, and reconstruction have been outstanding.

The Pakistan armed forces have also made the nation proud through their contribution to international peace and security.

Over the past 55 years, Pakistan has participated in more than 40 UN peace-keeping operations (PKOs) -- contributing over 150,000 well-trained and competent peacekeepers, with 142 of its valiant troops making the ultimate sacrifice.

On the bilateral plane, it is gratifying that defence collaboration between Pakistan and Turkey continues to flourish.

Just last week, as Chief of the Army Staff General Raheel Sharif was conferring with the top military and political leadership in Ankara, the two air forces were conducting a joint exercise in the skies of Pakistan.

Both sides remain engaged in charting new avenues to further deepen this cooperation, in the best interest of the two nations and of regional peace and stability.

We have no doubt that this abiding tradition of always standing by each other would continue to be further fortified in the times to come.

I thank you all for your participation, and wish you a pleasant evening.



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