Pakistan’s Defence Is Impregnable, Diplomacy Indispensable: Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh

No Notable Pentagon Military Official Attends Pakistan’s Defence Day Ceremony — Why? The Picture May Become Clearer in the Coming Days

Washington, D.C. — Asim Siddiqui

The Embassy of Pakistan in Washington, D.C., hosted a ceremony to mark Pakistan’s Defence and Martyrs’ Day, paying tribute to the sacrifices of the Pakistan Armed Forces and law enforcement personnel who have served in defense of the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Addressing the gathering, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, said that Pakistan’s defence remains impregnable while diplomacy serves as the country’s indispensable first line of defence. He emphasized that Pakistan has demonstrated not only its defence capabilities but also its ability to contribute to regional and global stability through effective diplomacy.

Defence Attaché Brigadier Muhammad Abu Bakar also paid tribute to the officers and soldiers of Pakistan’s Armed Forces, highlighting their sacrifices, professionalism, and operational readiness.

However, one notable aspect of this year’s ceremony was the relatively limited attendance and the apparent absence of any prominent U.S. military official from the Pentagon. In the context of previous Defence Day events, this was a noticeable development. No official explanation for the absence has been provided so far, and the reasons may become clearer in the coming days.

The ceremony was attended by foreign diplomats, military and service attachés, U.S. officials, and some members of the Pakistani-American community.

The event concluded with prayers for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of Pakistan.