Acting President Gilani Pays Tribute to Pakistan Navy Personnel on Navy Day

Acting President Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has paid tribute to the officers and personnel of the Pakistan Navy on Pakistan Navy Day, recognising their role in safeguarding the country's maritime frontiers, coastal security and national interests. Gilani said the day provided an opportunity to remember the courage, sacrifices and professionalism of the Pakistan Navy. He said that during the 1965 war, the Navy demonstrated remarkable bravery and strategic capability, reaffirming its resolve to defend Pakistan's maritime boundaries. He described Operation Somnath as a defining example of the Pakistan Navy's strategy, courage and professional competence, saying the operation dealt a significant blow to the enemy's defensive capabilities and remains a proud chapter in Pakistan's defence history. The acting president said the Pakistan Navy had evolved over the years into a modern and versatile maritime force capable of responding to emerging defence and regional challenges. In addition to defending the country's maritime frontiers, he said, the Navy contributes to maritime security, protects sea trade routes, supports international peacekeeping efforts and provides humanitarian assistance during natural disasters. Gilani said that during Marka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, the Pakistan Navy maintained vigilance and operational readiness to safeguard the country's coastal and maritime frontiers. He paid tribute to the martyrs who laid down their lives in defence of the country, saying their sacrifices would always be remembered by the nation. He also commended the ghazis, describing their service as a source of national pride. The acting president reaffirmed that Pakistan was a peace-loving country committed to regional stability and cooperation, but stressed that there could be no compromise on the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Gilani expressed confidence that the Pakistan Navy would continue to uphold its high professional standards and remain committed to defending Pakistan's maritime frontiers. He conveyed his best wishes to the officers and personnel of the Pakistan Navy, saying the nation stood with its maritime defenders and deeply valued their service.