DPM Dar hails Marka-e-Haq as symbol of national unity and courage

Islamabad (Web Desk): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, while marking the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq, said Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos reflected Pakistan’s firm and calculated response, sending a strong message that the country desires peace but will never sacrifice its honour, sovereignty, territorial integrity, or political independence.

In his message to the nation on the occasion, the deputy prime minister paid glowing tribute to the armed forces and the brave men and women of the country, describing Marka-e-Haq as a landmark chapter in Pakistan’s national history.

He said the occasion was far more significant than just another date, calling it a symbol of courage, unity, and steadfast determination.

 DPM Dar said every soldier remained unwavering in the face of challenges while the people of Pakistan stood shoulder to shoulder with them.

“On this day, I salute the bravery of our armed forces, our sons and daughters, who rose with discipline and determination to defend our homeland. I also salute the people of Pakistan, whose unity became our greatest strength. Because when the nation stands as one, no force on earth can shake its foundations,” said.

Referring to the aggression faced by the country, he said Pakistan, under the leadership of Prime Minister Mohammad Shehbaz Sharif, responded with patience, wisdom, and clarity of purpose. He added that the response remained balanced, responsible, and accurate, guided by principles instead of emotions.

The deputy prime minister stated that Operation Bunyan-ul-Marsoos represented much more than a battlefield achievement. “Acting in accordance with the UN Charter, Pakistan exercised its inherent right of self-defence under the then General Asim Munir, now Field Marshal and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), delivering a determined, decisive, and proportionate response directed solely at military installations of the aggressor,” he added.

He also commended the role played by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) and Pakistan Navy during the operation.

Dar said that under the leadership of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu, the Pakistan Air Force secured major operational accomplishments, including the destruction of several Indian fighter aircraft and the targeting of important military sites.

He maintained that these developments were fully documented and could not be disputed. At the same time, he said the Pakistan Navy, headed by Admiral Naveed Ashraf, stayed completely prepared to respond to any threat in the maritime arena.

Highlighting the diplomatic efforts made during Marka-e-Haq, the deputy prime minister said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also performed a vital role throughout the tense period.

FM Dar noted that he, along with officials of the Foreign Office, carried out extensive diplomatic engagements to effectively present Pakistan’s stance at regional and international forums, helping strengthen global understanding of Pakistan’s restrained and lawful response.

He further remarked that the developments of the previous year served as a reminder that durable peace in South Asia could not be achieved without resolving key disputes, especially the Jammu and Kashmir issue, in line with United Nations Security Council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to peace and regional stability, he said the country believes in dialogue, diplomacy, and settling conflicts through justice and mutual respect.

However, he stressed that any challenge to Pakistan’s homeland would be answered with complete national unity, unwavering determination, and full strength.

Describing the anniversary of Marka-e-Haq as more than just a remembrance of the past, Ishaq Dar said it should also inspire the nation to build a stronger future where Pakistan excels not only in defence but also in the economy, education, and social development.

He expressed hope for a future in which the youth move ahead with confidence and the country rises honourably among the nations of the world.

“Let this day renew our collective pledge: to stand united; to reject division; to work tirelessly for a peaceful and prosperous Pakistan — because the spirit of Marka-e-Haq lives not just in our history, but also in our hearts – now and forever Inshallah. Pakistan Zindabad,” the deputy prime minister resolved.