Marka-e-Haq Pakistan Hamesha Zindabad Ham Hen BunyanumMarsoos 1st COMMEMORATION 10 MAY 2026: MESSAGES from ASIF ALI ZARDARI

President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan

The nation stood firm with unwavering resolve when Pakistan faced a defining moment one year ago.

The events of May last year were not merely a military confrontation; they marked a critical test of our national resolve and collective spirit. Under the pretext of the Pahalgam false flag operation, India launched unprovoked aggression against Pakistan, targeting military installations as well as innocent civilians and places of worship. In response to this unprovoked aggression, Pakistan responded with restraint, strategic clarity, discipline, and national unity. Operation BunyanumMarsoos, which became the central pillar of Marka-e-Haq, demonstrated to the world the professionalism and strength of our Armed Forces, reinforced by the unwavering support of the Pakistani nation. Our response was carefully measured, proportionate, precise, and fully aligned with the demands of the situation. Our message was clear and unequivocal.

Marka-e-Haq has reaffirmed that Pakistan’s defence capability is not based on rhetoric but on professional excellence, institutional preparedness, integrated coordination among all branches of the Armed Forces, and the indomitable spirit of a nation that never bows before aggression. On this occasion, we pay tribute to the courage and sacrifices of our Armed Forces and honour all martyrs who gave their lives for the sovereignty, dignity, and security of Pakistan. It is part of our national commitment that whenever the country is challenged, every Pakistani rises in its defence, some in uniform and many without it.

Today, Pakistan stands recognized not only as a sovereign state fully capable of defending itself, but also as a responsible actor committed to peace and regional stability. During recent tensions in West Asia, Pakistan pursued balanced and principled diplomacy and contributed meaningfully to efforts that helped facilitate dialogue, de-escalation, and a ceasefire between key regional actors. These efforts reflect Pakistan’s consistent commitment to preventing conflict and promoting stability wherever possible.

On this occasion, it is important to reiterate that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute remains the core issue affecting peace and stability in South Asia. No objective assessment of regional security can ignore this reality. The legitimate aspirations of the Kashmiri people, as recognized in United Nations Security Council resolutions, remain unfulfilled despite decades of hardship. Pakistan remains steadfast in its principled position for a just, peaceful, and lawful resolution of the dispute in accordance with the wishes of the Kashmiri people.

The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, has long stood as a rare example of cooperation despite political tensions and conflicts. Any attempt to unilaterally suspend or undermine this agreement amounts to the weaponization of water and places the lives and livelihoods of millions at risk. Water must never be used as a tool of political pressure. Pakistan will defend its water rights with full resolve and determination.

We also reaffirm our firm stance on terrorism. Pakistan itself has suffered immensely as a frontline state in the fight against terrorism. We remain fully committed to eliminating all forms of extremist and militant threats, including Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan. Pakistan continues its constructive engagement with the interim Afghan authorities and expects full implementation of commitments under the Doha framework to ensure that Afghan soil is not used against Pakistan or any other country.

Pakistan does not seek confrontation. However, it will never accept coercion, intimidation, or hegemonic ambitions.

We remain firmly committed to safeguarding our sovereignty, upholding international law, and promoting a peaceful region where disputes are resolved through dialogue and diplomacy rather than force.

Marka-e-Haq now stands as a defining chapter in our national history. It was not a moment of choice, but when the moment arrived, the nation responded with unity, resilience, and determination.

This day will continue to remind us that a nation which remains conscious of its dignity and united in purpose will always possess the strength to defend its sovereignty, protect its people, and uphold its honour.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026