President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif jointly inaugurated the Yadgar-e-Fatah in Islamabad on Independence Day.
The monument honors Pakistan’s martyrs and commemorates what officials described as the country’s victory in Marka-e-Haq. Senior military and civilian officials, parliamentarians, diplomats and political leaders attended the ceremony.
Yadgar-e-Fatah Honors National Sacrifices
President Zardari said the monument represents national unity, the strength of Pakistan’s armed forces and the sacrifices of soldiers and citizens.
He credited Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir’s leadership during Marka-e-Haq. Moreover, he said Pakistan had demonstrated its strength and important role in the international community.
Zardari also reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for an independent Palestine. He said the country would continue following Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s vision on the Palestinian cause.
PM Shehbaz Reaffirms Pakistan’s Resolve
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the nation on Independence Day. He also paid tribute to the Muslims of the subcontinent who sacrificed their lives and property for Pakistan.
He described Yadgar-e-Fatah as a symbol of national resolve and determination. Furthermore, he praised the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu and Admiral Naveed Ashraf.
The prime minister said Pakistan wants peace but will respond firmly to any threat to its sovereignty and security.
Water Interests Called a Red Line
Speaking about the Indus Waters Treaty, Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan’s water is a red line.
He warned that any threat to Pakistan’s water interests would receive a direct and appropriate response. Meanwhile, he urged Afghanistan to prevent its territory from being used for terrorism against Pakistan.
Focus on Regional Peace
The prime minister also highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to promote regional stability. He referred to Islamabad’s role in reducing tensions between Iran and the United States.
He described the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement as a message of peace for the Middle East, the Muslim world and the wider international community.
In addition, Shehbaz emphasized the importance of Pakistan-China relations and said ties with the United States were also improving.
Youth Urged to Embrace Technology
Shehbaz Sharif called on young Pakistanis to develop expertise in modern sciences.
He particularly encouraged skills in information technology and artificial intelligence. The prime minister assured the youth that the government would provide support and resources for their development.
Monument Completed in Eight Months
The prime minister praised the architects, engineers, workers and other teams involved in constructing Yadgar-e-Fatah.
He said the monument is more than a physical structure. Instead, it represents the sacrifices of martyrs, the courage of veterans and the solidarity shown by the nation.
A special light and sound show presented key moments from Pakistan’s history and military journey. At midnight, President Zardari hoisted the national flag at the monument as the national anthem played.
Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir also presented special Yadgar-e-Fatah souvenirs to President Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
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