By. IRFAN SIDDIQUI
The spirit of patriotism, unity, and national pride echoed across Barcelona as thousands of overseas Pakistanis gathered to commemorate the first anniversary of “Marka-e-Haq” and Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, paying a heartfelt tribute to Pakistan’s Armed Forces for their historic response during the Pakistan-India conflict of 2025.
Organized by the EU Pak Friendship Federation Spain, the grand event turned into one of the largest patriotic gatherings of overseas Pakistanis in Europe. Participants from Pakistani, Kashmiri, and Arab communities filled the venue carrying Pakistan and Kashmir flags alongside portraits of Chief of Defence Forces and Field Marshal General Syed Asim Munir. The atmosphere remained charged with slogans of “Pakistan Zindabad,” “Pakistan Army Zindabad,” and “Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir Zindabad.”
The event was not merely a celebration. It was an emotional reminder of a defining moment in Pakistan’s contemporary history, when the nation stood united in the face of aggression and emerged stronger, more confident, and more united than ever before.
Chairman of EU Pak Friendship Federation Europe, Dr. Perveiz Iqbal Lohsar (Tamgha-e-Khidmat), attended the ceremony as Chief Guest and delivered a passionate address that received repeated applause from the audience. Praising the courage and professionalism of Pakistan’s Armed Forces, Dr. Lohsar said the events of 2025 proved that Pakistan possesses both the strength and determination to defend its sovereignty against any aggression.
He paid glowing tribute to Field Marshal General Syed Asim Munir for his visionary leadership and strategic command during the conflict. According to Dr. Lohsar, the military leadership displayed exceptional wisdom, discipline, and preparedness, which not only safeguarded Pakistan’s borders but also elevated the country’s global standing.
Dr. Lohsar also praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for demonstrating mature diplomatic leadership during one of the most sensitive periods in the region’s recent history. He noted that the strong coordination between Pakistan’s political and military leadership sent a powerful message of unity to the world.
“The unity between the nation, the government, and the Armed Forces became Pakistan’s greatest strength,” Dr. Lohsar stated. “The world witnessed how Pakistan responded with responsibility, confidence, and remarkable strategic capability.”
Highlighting the role of the Pakistan Air Force, Dr. Lohsar said the “Shaheens” stunned military observers around the world with their precision and operational excellence. He remarked that the downing of enemy fighter jets during the conflict demonstrated the superiority, professionalism, and preparedness of the Pakistan Air Force.
He also commended the Pakistan Navy for its strategic vigilance and preparedness, stating that the naval forces successfully protected Pakistan’s maritime interests and kept hostile ambitions at bay.
Throughout the ceremony, speakers repeatedly emphasized that Pakistan desires peace in South Asia, but peace should never be mistaken for weakness. They stressed that the country’s Armed Forces remain fully prepared to defend every inch of Pakistan’s territory whenever required.
The emotional gathering reflected the deep attachment overseas Pakistanis continue to hold for their homeland. Many attendees became visibly emotional while remembering the sacrifices of Pakistan’s martyrs and security personnel. Young participants waved flags, families sang patriotic songs, and community leaders spoke about the importance of national unity during challenging times.
The programme was presided over by Kamran Khan, President of EU Pak Friendship Federation Spain, while Syed Qasim Sajjad Shah, President of EU Pak Friendship Federation Portugal, also addressed the gathering. Raja Hasnain, a young leader associated with Tehreek-e-Azadi-e-Kashmir, highlighted the unwavering support of overseas Kashmiris for Pakistan and praised the country’s continued moral and diplomatic support for the Kashmiri cause.
Members of the organizing committee included Mahr Afzaal Buzurgwall, Chaudhry Mian Khan Machiwal, Mian Atif Nazir, Mahr Nawaz Jhang, Chaudhry Qurban Marhana, Raja Mudassar Bolani, Chaudhry Aziz Amra, Chaudhry Saleem Langrial, and Chaudhry Muhammad Iqbal, all of whom were appreciated for organizing a memorable and disciplined event.
As the ceremony concluded with prayers for Pakistan’s peace, prosperity, and stability, one message stood above all others: regardless of distance or geography, overseas Pakistanis remain emotionally connected to their homeland and stand firmly beside their Armed Forces.
The Barcelona gathering became more than a celebration of military success. It was a powerful expression of national unity, overseas solidarity, and unwavering pride in Pakistan’s resilience and strength.
