(Karachi) Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa has said that the Armed Forces of Pakistan are capable of thwarting any misadventure and nefarious designs of enemy.

Addressing a ceremony in connection with Defence and Martyrs Day in General Headquarters on Sunday, he said that the love of the nation towards the armed forces of the country is eternal.

He added, "Martyrs of the country are our heroes and we will not forget their sacrifices." The army chief said, "We are facing a challenge in the form of hybrid war which is aimed at defaming the country."

He said that Pakistan is a peace loving country but in case of any misadventure, its forces are well prepared to give a befitting response.

He said that September 6, 1965, reminds the nation of the sacrifices of armed forces who laid their lives to defend the country. "Those nations who forget sacrifices of their heroes do not survive," he said.

"The day is commemorated in memory of armed forces personnel and people who sacrificed their lives during the wars of 1965, 1971 and partition of Pakistan in 1948."

Meanwhile, 40 officers were awarded Sitara-e-Imtiaz (Military) while 24 army personnel were awarded with Tamgha-e-Basalat for their services and sacrifices for the country.