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ISLAMABAD: Pakistan's armed forces have extended heartfelt felicitations to the nation on the country's 79th Independence Day, reaffirming their resolve to defend the country's sovereignty, uphold the Constitution and safeguard its national interests, a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Friday.
The joint message was issued by Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu on behalf of the Armed Forces of Pakistan.
The military leadership paid tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the country's founding fathers and all those whose sacrifices led to the creation of Pakistan, the military's media wing said.
It said their vision, courage and determination remained a guiding force for the nation and continued to inspire Pakistanis to uphold the country's principles and ideals.
The Armed Forces also paid tribute to the country's martyrs, veterans, law enforcement personnel and all Pakistanis who have served the nation.
Their courage and selfless service had strengthened Pakistan's resilience and helped safeguard its independence, security and national interests, the statement said.
The military leadership reaffirmed its commitment to defending the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity against all threats while upholding the Constitution and fulfilling the trust placed in the armed forces by the people.
It said the armed forces, together with the nation, would remain committed to preserving peace and stability and creating conditions conducive to national progress and prosperity.
"As guardians of Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, the Armed Forces reaffirm their unwavering resolve to defend the motherland against all threats, uphold the Constitution and discharge the sacred trust reposed in them by the people of Pakistan," it said.
The military leadership said Pakistan's strength lay in the unity and collective resolve of its people.
It called on the nation to renew its commitment to the principles of Faith, Unity and Discipline, strengthen national cohesion, promote tolerance and work towards a secure, stable and prosperous Pakistan.
The statement concluded with messages of solidarity with the nation and Pakistan, with these words: "Pakistan Armed Forces Zindabad! Pakistan Hamesha Paindabad!"
