President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated the Yadgar-i-Fatah monument in Islamabad on Thursday night.
The ceremony took place on the eve of Pakistan’s 80th Independence Day. The monument honours Pakistan’s martyrs and commemorates Marka-i-Haq.
Senior military leadership attended the ceremony alongside foreign diplomats and government officials. Participants also stood for the national anthem as a military band performed.
PM Shehbaz Pays Tribute To Martyrs
Prime Minister Shehbaz congratulated the nation on Independence Day during his address. He said Pakistan’s founders made great sacrifices for the country’s freedom.
He described Yadgar-i-Fatah as a symbol of national resolve and determination. He also praised Pakistan’s armed forces for their role during Marka-i-Haq.
The premier paid tribute to Field Marshal Asim Munir and other military chiefs. He also congratulated architects and engineers who designed the monument.
Monument Completed In Eight Months
Shehbaz praised the monument’s modern design and rapid construction. He said the project reached completion within eight months.
The prime minister described the monument as more than a structure. He called it a tribute to martyrs who sacrificed their lives defending Pakistan.
Shehbaz stressed that Pakistan seeks peace rather than war. However, he said the country would firmly defend its sovereignty when challenged.
He said Pakistan has emerged as a “guarantor of peace” in the region. The prime minister also warned of a stronger response to any future threat.
