Pakistani nation on Thursday observed the 47th Defense Day across the country with a renewed pledge, commitment and determination to defend the territorial integrity and sovereignty of the country against any aggression.

The day is observed every year in the memory of the martyred soldiers who sacrificed their lives and to mark the successful defense of the country during the Pakistan-India War of 1965.

The day long celebration started with special prayers at worship places, Army Units, Naval Establishments and Air Force Bases for the sovereignty, solidarity, integrity, progress and prosperity of the country.

The national flag was hoisted at all important government buildings and at the installations of the armed forces.

Floral wreaths were laid at the memorials of all the martyred soldiers who were awarded with Nishan-e-Haider (Pakistan's top military award) while guards-changing ceremonies were held at the tomb of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, and at the mausoleum of Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the national poet who presented the idea of Pakistan.

Special messages of the services chiefs were read out to the troops of Army, Navy and Pakistan Air Force.

Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, in a message on the Day, said that Pakistan is a moderate, tolerant and peaceful nation but the dark forces of extremism, militancy and terrorism are posing a serious challenge to the integrity of the nation, but no one will be allowed to endanger its existence.

"Let us, pledge that we will never allow anyone to endanger our existence as a moderate, tolerant and peaceful nation," said the President.

Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf in his message said that it is a day, which represents the nation's unwavering commitment to unify in the testing situations.

"I have complete faith in the people of Pakistan and our armed forces. If we maintain unity in our ranks and remain resolute in the face of odds facing us, there is no reason why we cannot defeat the nefarious designs of our enemies," the PM said.

The Armed Forces carried out functions at their different stations, where officers and soldiers remembered the brave men who brought glory to the institutions and the country.

Local Urdu and English newspapers published special supplements to pay homage to the martyrs while state-run "Pakistan Radio" and TV channel PTV and private Urdu TV channels telecasted special programs and national songs regarding the special Day.