Islamabad: The Yadgar-e-Fatah, built in Islamabad to honour the sacrifices of Pakistan's martyrs and commemorate the splendid victory in Marka-e-Haq, was jointly inaugurated by President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif tonight.
According to Radio Pakistan, the ceremony was attended by a significant array of dignitaries, including Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Yahya Afridi, and top military officials such as Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, and Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf. Federal ministers, provincial political leaders, parliamentarians, diplomats, and officers of the armed forces were also present.
During his address, President Asif Ali Zardari highlighted Pakistan's resolute response to Indian aggression during Marka-e-Haq under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. He emphasized that the Yadgar-e-Fatah Monument symbolizes national unity, the strength of the armed forces, and the sacrifices made by the nation and its soldiers. The President also reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to an independent Palestine as envisioned by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and expressed strong opposition to the concept of a Greater Israel.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, addressing the gathering, congratulated the nation on Independence Day and paid homage to the sacrifices made under the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. He described the monument as a symbol of Pakistan's resolve and determination and lauded Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir's leadership alongside Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu and Admiral Naveed Ashraf in safeguarding the nation.
The Prime Minister reiterated Pakistan's firm stance on national sovereignty, particularly concerning the Indus Water Treaty, and emphasized the importance of regional peace, especially with Afghanistan. He reaffirmed Pakistan's support for the Kashmiri people's right to self-determination and a fair resolution to the Palestine issue. Furthermore, he underscored the significance of Pakistan-China relations and the improving ties with the United States.
The ceremony featured a special light and sound show, showcasing pivotal moments in Pakistan's history and military achievements, culminating with the national flag being hoisted at midnight by President Zardari. Special souvenirs were presented to the President and Prime Minister by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.
The event concluded with a heartfelt interaction between the military leadership, the President, Prime Minister, and the families of martyrs, reaffirming the nation's enduring commitment to honouring their sacrifices. Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir expressed pride in the martyrs, underscoring the nation's resolve to always remember their contributions.