Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Monday paid glowing tributes to the Pakistan Armed Forces and their martyrs, describing their sacrifices as the foundation of the country’s peace, stability and progress. He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to building a cleaner, greener, safer and more inclusive Karachi.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 15-day Salaam Karachi Festival at the Frere Hall, Shah said the brave men and women who have laid down their lives in defence of the country would forever remain a source of inspiration for future generations. “The brave sons and daughters of Pakistan who have laid down their lives for the defence of our homeland are our national heroes. Their sacrifices safeguarded our freedom, protected our sovereignty and strengthened our resolve as a nation.”
The ceremony held in connection with Defence Day marked the culmination of a citywide festival that celebrated Karachi’s culture, diversity, heritage and community spirit through a series of cultural, literary, sporting and recreational activities.
Shah said the peace and stability enjoyed by the country today are the result of the courage, dedication and professionalism of Pakistan’s armed forces and law enforcement personnel. “The sacrifices of our martyrs are not merely chapters of history; they are a living source of inspiration for future generations. We salute their courage, and honour the families who have endured immeasurable loss for the sake of Pakistan.”
Referring to Salaam Karachi, he said the festivalsuccessfully showcased the city’s vibrant identity, and demonstrated the strong bond between the residents and their metropolis. “Karachi belongs to all of us. Its future depends on our shared efforts, and its progress and prosperity remain our common mission.”
He noted that the enthusiastic participation of families, women, youth, artists, performers and civil society organisations reflects the growing public confidence in community and cultural activities.
Congratulating the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, Mayor Murtaza Wahab, Deputy Mayor Salman Abdullah Murad and the organising team, he said the festival had projected a positive image of the city, and highlighted its diversity, resilience and creative potential.
He reiterated his government’s commitment to improving urban infrastructure, public services, parks, sports facilities, cultural institutions and recreational spaces across the city. He said the government’s vision is to ensure that development reaches every part of the city, from Lyari and Malir to Korangi, Clifton, Orangi and Gulshan-e-Hadeed, enabling all the residents to benefit from Karachi’s growth and opportunities.
He emphasised that the success of Salaam Karachi demonstrates what can be achieved when government institutions, local authorities, civil society and citizens work together towards a common goal.
He also expressed the hope that Salaam Karachi would continue to grow in the coming years, and become a permanent feature of the city’s cultural calendar. The ceremony had begun with the recitation of the Holy Quran and the singing of the national anthem, followed by presentations highlighting the significance of Defence Day and tributes paid to the Pakistan Armed Forces, including a special ‘Salaam Sipahi’ segment and a commemorative video.
The participants were also shown an audiovisual presentation featuring activities held during the festival, while cultural performances, including the Salaam Karachi theme song, entertained the audience.
Wahab said on the occasion that the success of Salaam Karachi reflects the city’s desire for positive engagement and community participation. “Karachi is not merely a city; it is Pakistan’s economic, social and national identity. When Karachi progresses, Pakistan progresses.”
He said that the objective of the festival was to project Karachi’s positive image, and provide opportunities for families, artists, athletes and young people to celebrate their city. “We want the world to see Karachi for its talent, resilience, diversity and potential. Salaam Karachi has demonstrated that our city is vibrant, peaceful and full of promise.”
The mayor said Karachi’s strength lies in its inclusiveness and collective ownership, adding that every resident has a role to play in shaping the city’s future. The programme also included remarks from the deputy mayor, audience interactions, and a documentary on Karachi’s development and progress, and concluded with a musical concert attended by a large number of people.
