Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday paid homage to armed forces for protecting the territorial integrity of the country and robustly fighting the menace of terrorism across Pakistan.

Addressing a ceremony held at the Army Auditorium, General Headquarters (GHQ) to honour the sacrifices of shuhada and ghazis, the prime minister stressed unity among all the ranks to rebuild Pakistan collectively.

The ceremony was attended by Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, officers, ministers and families of shuhada and ghazis. The prime minister visited GHQ on his farewell visit. Upon arrival, he was received by the COAS.

Addressing the ceremony, PM Shehbaz said that the country came out of the most difficult times due to the relentless efforts of the incumbent government.

He said 75 years had passed since the creation of Pakistan, but Quaid-e-Azam’s vision still remained unfulfilled.

The prime minister said that the incumbent government would complete its term on Wednesday (tomorrow) and after which they would hand over the reign of the government to an interim set-up in accordance with the constitution.

A comprehensive plan was put in place for the progress and prosperity of the country by the incumbent government, he said, adding Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) had given that vision for the progress of Pakistan with the development of agriculture, minerals and IT sectors.

He further said that under that plan, foreign investment worth billions of dollars would be made in the country.

The prime minister termed the ceremony to honour shuhada and ghazis as a dignified occasion paid tribute to their great sacrifices.

They had made Pakistan more secure with their sacrifices and saved it from the evil designs of the enemies, he added.

He said that they had laid down their lives for the defence of the country by setting unmatched precedents of bravery, valour and sacrifice, adding that the nation had been rendering sacrifices since the creation of Pakistan.

On 14th August Pakistan would celebrate its 76th anniversary. The nation has to traverse the path carved out by their shuhada to make Pakistan a prosperous and developed country, he maintained.

On the Independence Day, they should pledge to work day and night for the country as much water had already flown under the bridges, he added.

The prime minister underlined that for the elimination of poverty and unemployment, they should rid Pakistan of foreign debts with sincerity, devotion and hard work.

“Shuhadas and ghazis are our pride and their respect and honour is binding on each Pakistani. We must never forget that the peace and freedom we enjoy today is due to the ultimate sacrifices rendered by these brave sons of soil. I salute their families for sacrificing their loved ones for Pakistan,” he added.

On the occasion, the prime minister appreciated the efforts of Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir and his team and the present federal and provincial governments for the bright and prosperous future of Pakistan.

Later, the prime minister met the Principal Staff Officers (PSOs) and was presented with the Guard of Honour and laid a floral wreath at the Yadgar-e-Shuhada.

He also distributed cheques of Special Financial Assistance amongst 70 families of martyrs and 30 War Wounded Persons. Laptops were also distributed amongst the children of shuhada who are undergoing their academic pursuits.