Nation need same zeal of 1965 war to defeat forces of terrorism,
sectarianism: PM

ISLAMABAD, Sept 5 (APP): Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf has
said that nation need the same zeal and commitment today as it
exhibited in the 1965 war to defeat the forces of terrorism,
extremism and sectarianism.
"I am proud that our valiant armed forces are fighting against
these scourges with the support of the nation and we remain
determined to surmount all challenges to national integrity and
security," the Prime Minister said in his message on the occasion of
Defence Day (Sept.6).
Expressing complete faith in the people of Pakistan and armed
forces, the Prime Minister said,"If we maintain unity in our ranks
and remain resolute in the face of the odds facing us, there is no
reason why we cannot defeat the nefarious designs of our enemies and
overcome the challenges that confront us."
He said as the nation celebrates Defence Day today, it reminds
us of the heroic sacrifices rendered by the armed forces for the
defence of the motherland.
He said the nation rose to the occasion and proved that the
aggressive and nefarious designs of a numerically superior and
militarily bigger power could be thwarted through unity, faith and
courage. A nation that remains steadfast in its determination and is
imbued with love for the country is bound to succeed, he added.
The Prime Minister paid rich tributes to the martyrs and
`Ghazis' who displayed sincerity of purpose, gallantry, sacrifice,
and courage, which the nation could rightfully take pride in.
He said September 6 is a day, which represents the nation's
unwavering commitment to unify in the face of grave challenges.
He said Pakistan is a nuclear power and we are grateful to
Shaheed Zulifkar Ali Bhutto, Pakistan's first elected Prime
Minister, who launched the country's nuclear programme and made its
defence impregnable.
Raja Pervez Ashraf said Pakistan did not entertain any
aggressive design against anyone and desires to have friendly and
peaceful relations in accordance with internationally recognized
principles of peaceful co-existence.
On this occasion, "let us reiterate our pledge to safeguard
our independence and integrity. Let us commit ourselves to focus our
energies for the progress and welfare of our people," the Prime
Minister said.