Zardari vows to root out terrorism, militancy

President Asif Ali Zardari has said that the Defense Day is the occasion for the nation to introspect and to rededicate itself to the ideal of national unity and harmony.Addressing the Defence Day celebrations at Joint Staff Headquarters in Chaklala Rawalpindi on Thursday‚ the President said that September 6 is a memorable day in our national calendar.The President said that we need to imbibe the spirit of September 6 as the need for it‚ today‚ is greater than ever before.President Zardari said that the country is faced with militancy‚ terrorism and sectarianism and the militants have threatened our national integrity. He said that the extremists want to impose their political agenda on the people through bullet. But‚ we cannot allow this. We must not allow this. Indeed we will never allow this. The President said in a resolute manner that we would fight them to the finish.He said that the significance of this day will never be erased from our memories. On this day in 1965‚ he said‚ the unity displayed by the nation in standing behind its armed forces is unforgettable. He said the courage displayed by the officers and soldiers on this day will always be remembered.The President said that while commemorating the Defense Day‚ three elements stand out. The justness of the cause‚ the selflessness of the people‚ and‚ third‚ the commitment and courage of our armed forces enabled us to face the challenge to our existence.He said today‚ we pay homage to our national heroes. They remained steadfast against heavy odds. Many laid down their lives so that we lived in freedom and with honour‚ the President remarked. He said that we are indebted to them. The President on the occasion said that he has asked the Government of Sindh for allotment of plots to the heirs of Shaheeds of war on terrorism.The President said that Pakistan has come a long way since 1965. Today‚ the defence of the country is much stronger. We have made great progress in achieving self-reliance in defense capability. He said that we are seeking to make our defence capability even stronger.President Zardari said that we believe that peace is essential for development and progress. We believe in peace with honor. Pakistan‚ he said‚ has initiated the process of dialogue in the region aimed at peaceful resolution of all outstanding disputes including the dispute of Jammu and Kashmir.He said that Pakistan seeks good relations with all based on mutual respect and equality. He also reiterated Pakistans desire for peace in Afghanistan and in the region. A peaceful and stable Afghanistan‚ he said‚ is in our national interest. We support an Afghan led and Afghan owned reconciliation process in Afghanistan.