Pakistan’s Defence Day and Martyrs’ Day was observed in Germany with national spirit and enthusiasm as Pakistani expatriates gathered in Berlin and Hamburg to honour the sacrifices of the armed forces, recall the events of the September 6, 1965 war, reaffirm their commitment to Pakistan and pray for the country’s peace, stability, sovereignty and prosperity.
In Berlin, the occasion was marked by a gathering organised by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Germany General Secretary and POEF Europe Chief Organiser Muhammad Anser Butt.
Addressing the participants, Butt highlighted the significance of September 6, 1965, recalling the events of the war and paying tribute to the resilience and courage displayed by the Pakistan Armed Forces.
He said Pakistanis living abroad had stood by their country in the past and continued to support Pakistan and its institutions.
A separate gathering was held in Hamburg by Farid Shah, Vice President of the Pakistan German Society and Information Secretary of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Germany.
Speaking on the occasion, Shah described the 1965 war as an important chapter in Pakistan’s history, saying it demonstrated national unity, courage and determination. He paid tribute to the sacrifices of the armed forces and expressed confidence in the country’s leadership.
Meanwhile, Ghazanfar-ud-Din Ahmed, founding president of the Central Multicultural Mosque, hosted a special get-together where prayers were offered for the elevation of the ranks of those who lost their lives defending Pakistan.
Recalling President Ayub Khan’s address during the 1965 war, Ahmed said the speech had helped inspire a strong sense of unity and national resolve among Pakistanis at a critical time.
Shah Rukh Mahmood, a Lahore-based article writer and vlogger who was also present at the gathering, recalled the spirit demonstrated by the people of Lahore during the 1965 war.
He said ordinary citizens had shown remarkable determination and supported the armed forces during the difficult period.
The gatherings in Germany conveyed a common message that Pakistani expatriates, despite living far from their homeland, remained emotionally connected to Pakistan and continued to remember the sacrifices made for the country’s defence.
The participants also offered prayers for the martyrs and expressed hope for Pakistan’s peace, stability, sovereignty and prosperity.
