ISLAMABAD: The Arms Control and Disarmament Centre (ACDC) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) organized a ceremony to mark Pakistan Defence Day.
Accoridng to a press release issued by the ISSI on Friday, the event focused on “Pakistan Strategic Defence: A Journey to Ensure Credible Deterrence.”
The event started with the national anthem, which was attended by the ISSI Research Faculty, interns and students.
DG ISSI Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, in his remarks on the occasion, paid glowing rich tribute to the Pakistan Armed Forces and paid homage to the martyrs who made the ultimate sacrifice while defending the country. He added that Pakistan, by virtue of its geography, has always faced complex security challenges. He said that over the past 77 years, Pakistan had navigated through turbulent waters.
He said that Pakistan’s journey in strategic defence had been one of innovation, perseverance, and determination. Further, the spirit of the nation was never dampened, no matter what the odds. He noted the nation had abiding faith in what Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah had said. Ambassador Sohail said over the decades, Pakistan has built a credible deterrence capability, ensuring that no one can threaten its existence.
He added from strengthening our conventional forces to developing a robust nuclear deterrent, our defence strategy evolved to meet the changing dynamics of regional and global security. He emphasized the significance of renewing the commitment to ensure that Pakistan remains strong, secure, prosperous, and on-track to realize the Quaid’s vision. He said that with unity, faith and discipline, we will continue to build on the legacy of our founding fathers, honour the sacrifices of our martyrs, and leave a better Pakistan to our coming generations.
Malik Qasim Mustafa, Director ACDC, in his views said that the nation commemorates this day as one of the proudest moments in Pakistan’s history when Pakistani soldiers sacrificed their lives to safeguard our homeland.
Sardar Jahanzaib, Research Associate ACDC, outlined the key security challenges faced by Pakistan since its inception. He emphasized Pakistan’s adoption of “Credible Minimum Deterrence” following India’s nuclear tests.
Participants appreciated the sacrifices of the Pakistan armed forces saying there will be no compromise on territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country.
Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman BoG ISSI, in his remarks, said that security is an all-embracing concept encompassing territorial integrity, safeguarding ideological frontiers, and achieving economic security. At the end participants offered dua for the shuhada.
