ISLAMABAD: President Mamnoon Hussain on Saturday said the armed forces are efficiently defending Pakistan on all fronts. He was addressing an award distribution ceremony and Bara Khana (grand luncheon) of the armed forces arranged in connection with the Joint Services Pakistan Day Parade. He felicitated the armed forces on excellent organisation of Pakistan Day parade and said the joint parade was an undeniable proof about the exemplary discipline and excellent capabilities of the armed forces of Pakistan. The nation feels pride over the professional capabilities of the armed forces and they were symbols of defence, integrity and pride of the motherland, he added. He observed that March 23rd parade which had reflected national resolve, also strengthened nation’s enthusiasm and created awe in the heart of enemies. It also re-established nation’s confidence in the armed forces of the country that they were always ready in defending the country, he added. He also expressed his pleasure over the participation of troops from China and Saudi Arabia and the Turkish band. He said their participation displayed everlasting friendly ties between Pakistan and these countries. The president said, “The parade also rekindled the same fervour which our elders had showed during the Pakistan Movement. The parade also helped in promoting Pakistan’s image at the international level, he said and told the gathering that the height of your professionalism, glistening of the medals and equipments had struck awe in the eyes of enemies.” He advised the troops to always keep alive the fervour for the greatness of Pakistan. He said the way armed forces had defended and served the nation and country in every critical moment was unprecedented. The nation wanted this esteemed institution to keep acquiring further strength by equipping itself on modern lines and techniques, so that no enemy could cast an evil eye on the motherland, he added. He said, “The government would leave no stone unturned in equipping the armed forces with the latest weaponry and equipments because a strong defence and preparedness could defend us against the threats of terrorism, internal and external challenges and in view of the regional context.” He also paid tributes to the officers and personnel of armed forces who laid down their lives in defending the motherland. He reiterated that the operation Radd-ul-Fasaad was manifestation of national resolve and it would continue till elimination of the last terrorist. The Quaid-e-Azam had given the slogan of faith, discipline and unity and the armed forces should continue serving the nation under the same guiding principle, he added. He said that as a result a powerful, stronger and democratic Pakistan would emerge and successfully address its issues. Later, Mamnoon gave away prizes to the officials for their excellent performance in the parade, personnel of civil administration and to the artists and craftsmen. Officers of Chinese and Saudi troops were also awarded shields. The Chinese ambassador to Pakistan received the shield on behalf of the Chinese troops. Director General Logistics Major General Muhammad Jaffar also addressed the ceremony.