Pakistan's efforts to maintain peace in region should not be taken as weakness, says PM

(Karachi) Prime Minister Imran Khan has said that Pakistan's efforts to maintain peace in the region should not be considered as weakness and the armed forces are prepared to respond befittingly to any misadventure.

In his message on Defence and Martyrs Day, the premier said Pakistan and its armed forces are fully capable of defending its borders. "Pakistan's desire for peace is for the economic wellbeing and prosperity of the people of the region," he stated.

The PM pointed out that size of a country's military does not matters, rather it is the courage and devotion that matters the most.

Regarding Kashmir issue, Imran mentioned India's move to revoke Article 370 and 35-A was in complete violation of the United Nations Charter and resulted in grave human rights violations in Indian Occupied valley.

He said Indian troops are trageting innocent people along the Line of Control (LoC) and such actions are aimed to divert the attention of the world from their illegal actions in Kashmir.

Defence and Martyrs Day is being observed today across the country with enthusiasm and devotion besides the renewal of the pledge to render all sacrifices to safeguard the geographical and ideological frontiers of the motherland.

The day dawned with 31-gun salute in the federal capital and 21-gun salute in the provincial capitals. The main event of the day was held at the General Headquarters, and was attended by serving and veteran miltiary officers and the families of the martyrs.

Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa visit the Martyrs monument and laid floral wreath and offered prayers.

Special prayers were also offered after Fajr prayers in mosques for the progress and prosperity of the country and independence of occupied Kashmir from the cruel clutches of India.