The Pakistani Embassy in Washington hosted a grand ceremony to commemorate the first anniversary of the Marka-e-Haq – a testament of historic significance to Pakistan’s unity, resilience and unwavering national resolve.
The ceremony was attended by a large number of participants, including members of the Pakistani-American diaspora, scholars, students, business leaders, embassy officials and media representatives.
Members of the Pakistani-American community participated enthusiastically, reaffirming their deep love and commitment to the homeland as well as solidarity with the nation. Patriotic songs and spirited chants of “Pakistan Zindabad” filled the atmosphere, reflecting renewed national pride, unity and collective resolve.
The ceremony paid tribute to the brave men and women of the Pakistan Armed Forces for protecting the country’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national dignity with exemplary professionalism and courage. The civilian and military leadership was also praised for its decisive stewardship during a critical period for the nation.
Messages from President Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif were read out on the occasion, while video messages from the Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister reiterated Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to defend the homeland at all costs.
Defense Attache Brigadier Irfan Ali read out the message from Chief of Defense Forces/Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.
Addressing the gathering, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, highlighted the significance of Marka-e-Haq and the collective resolve demonstrated by the Pakistani nation. He emphasized that Pakistan’s strategic importance, resilience and role in promoting regional and global peace continued to gain strength.
“Our unity is our strength and it was shown during the May 2025 conflict. The nation stood shoulder to shoulder with its leadership and the valiant armed forces in defeating the nefarious designs of the enemy,” the ambassador noted.
The ambassador noted that the victory against provocation was a collective triumph led by the country’s civil-military and diplomatic leadership. He emphasized that while Pakistan remained committed to regional and global peace, the desire must never be mistaken for weakness.
He appreciated the positive role played by US President Donald Trump in supporting ceasefire efforts between the two nuclear powers.
Looking to the future, the ambassador linked national defense with economic sovereignty, stating that the concept of Bunyan-um-Marsoos would be fully realized in the non-kinetic domain once Pakistan achieved economic stability and prosperity.
He urged the Pakistani American diaspora to step in and step up their vital role geared towards strengthening the Pakistan-US bilateral relationship.
The evening featured a documentary depicting the nation’s defense efforts and live performances of national songs, adding further spirit to the evening as the audience passionately chanted slogans of “Pakistan Hamesha Zindabad.”
The ceremony ended with a renewed national pledge of unity, progress and collective responsibility to build a stronger and more prosperous Pakistan.
