Pakistan celebrates Defence Day today to mark the 52nd anniversary of the 1965 war with traditional fervour and renewed pledge to defend the motherland against all threats.

The day began with special prayers for the progress and prosperity of Pakistan, followed by change of guard ceremonies at the mausoleums of Allama Iqbal in Lahore and Quaid-i-Azam in Karachi, and a ceremony at the Pakistan Navy headquarters in Islamabad.

Air vice Marshal Imran Khalid was chief guest of the ceremony who laid floral wreath and offered fateha at the Mazar of father of the nation. Traditional national salute was also presented to the father of the nation by the cadets of the Pakistan Air Force.

Special events will be held to mark the Day. The national media, both print and electronic have chalked out comprehensive coverage plans of the events to be held in connection with the Day.

President Mamnoon Hussain and Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi in their separate messages on the occasion paid homage to those who laid down their lives in Pakistan's defence. Chief of Army staff Qamar Javed Bajwa will also address the nation live from GHQ at 8 p.m. on Wednesday.