RAWALPINDI: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif yesterday visited Combined Military Hospital (CMH) in Rawalpindi to inquire about the health of soldiers and civilians injured during Marka-e-Haq.

The prime minister was accompanied by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir, Federal Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and Federal Information Minister Atta Tarar, according to the statement released from Prime Minister (PM Office). During the visit, the prime minister lauded the unparalleled bravery, determination and sense of duty shown by the wounded soldiers during Marka-e-Haq.

The way our armed forces and the entire nation fought this war is truly unprecedented, said PM Shehbaz during his visit. The nation is observing Youm-e-Tashakur (Day of Gratitute) across Pakistan today to mark the historic victory of Marka-e-Haq and to pay tribute to the armed forces and the resilient people of the country following the success of Operation Bunyan Marsoos.

The day began with the recitation of the Holy Quran and special prayers in mosques throughout the country. Special supplications were offered for Pakistan's stability, prosperity, and unity. Prayers were also held for the freedom of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

Following the Namaz-e-Shukr, Quran recitations were held for the success of the armed forces and the elevation of the ranks of the martyrs who laid down their lives in defence of the nation.

A 31-gun salute was presented in Islamabad and 21-gun salutes echoed across all provincial capitals, including Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK) and Gilgit-Baltistan, as Pakistan marked Youm-e-Tashakur to celebrate the historic victory of Operation Bunyan Marsoos.

Gun salutes, change of guard ceremonies, and floral wreaths laid at monuments to the fallen were part of the day-long events honouring the courage and sacrifices of Pakistan's defenders. Prime Minister, accompanied by the Chief of Army Staff, visited the residence of Shaheed Squadron Leader Usman Yousaf.

PM Shehbaz and COAS met with the family members of the martyr and offered prayers for the elevation of his rank in the hereafter.

The Prime Minister praised the dedication and sense of duty demonstrated by Squadron Leader Usman Yousaf during Marka-e-Haq, sources added. President Asif Ali Zardari and PM Shehbaz have also issued special messages to the nation on the occasion of Youm-e-Tashakur declaring the success of Operation Bunyan Marsoos as a joint victory of Pakistan's armed forces and its proud, dignified people.

President Asif Ali Zardari, in his official message, praised the courage and professionalism of the armed forces, stating "This victory is not only of our valiant military but of the entire nation that stood united like a solid wall. I thank Almighty Allah for granting us success in this critical hour."

Published in The Daily National Courier, May, 17 2025

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