Soomro urges nation to unite against external, internal challenges

Acting President Mohammadmian Soomro has said that it was vital for the nation to stand united, have faith and exhibit discipline to confront the serious external and internal threats which Pakistan faces.
In a message on Defence Day of Pakistan, he said that Pakistan confronted a number of internal and external threats, internally, extremism and terrorism as these are weakening the country's roots and having an impact on the country's economy. Externally, too, Pakistan is grappling with multiple challenges," he added.
"During this hour of trial we need unity, faith and discipline amongst our ranks. Defence Day of Pakistan provides us an opportunity to invigorate in our hearts the spirit to defend our Motherland at all costs," the President said.
He said there was no doubt that a strong defence capability sustained by a sound economy was the best deterrence against any kind of aggression and threat. He said the Defence Day of Pakistan was a special milestone in the country's history.
"Forty three years ago, on this day, our brave Armed Forces with the entire nation at their back stood as a rock against the aggressor and thwarted the nefarious designs of the enemy." He said: "The Day reminds us of the acts of heroism and gallantry displayed by our Shuhada and Ghazis."
In the battlefield, the gallant men from the Army, Navy and Air Force showed unprecedented professionalism, skill and valour. They were fully supported by the entire nation. This unparalleled display of valour and unity for ever will remain a glorious chapter in Pakistan's history, Soomro said.
He said there was a dire need of keeping the national spirit alive "so that we can face the threats posed to our internal as well external security". "We are the ones who have to write our destinies; we will have to work hard and be ready for all kinds of sacrifices. Our Armed Forces are matchless in their professional skills and sense of duty." He said the Government, despite limited resources, was all out to meet the requirements of Armed Forces to maintain their efficacy, capability and readiness to respond to the call of duty as and when required.