Rabita Forum International (RFI) organized a profound discussion session titled “Securing the Future through Peace and Stability.” On the occasion of Youm Fat’h-e-Mubeen (Defense Day). The event brought together a distinguished panel of speakers, including Lt. Gen. (R) Moinuddin Haider, former Interior Minister and Governor of Sindh, Air Commodore (R) Zahid ul Hassan, Director Research at the Center for International Strategic Studies Sindh (CISSS), Commodore (R) Syed Muhammad Obaidullah, Dr. Uzma Shujaat, Acting Director of the Area Study Center for Europe at the University of Karachi and Syed Samiullah, Head of Research Department at RFI. Ms. Wajeeha Najam, Research Officer at RFI, moderated the program.
Lt. Gen. (R) Moinuddin Haider, the Chief Guest, delivered an in-depth analysis of the historical backdrop to the 1965 war, focusing on India’s early resistance to Pakistan’s sovereignty. He recounted India’s initial refusal to transfer Pakistan’s rightful share of military assets and liquid funds following partitionresources that were eventually handed over due to Mahatma Gandhi’s intervention. Gen. Haider further emphasized India’s longstanding defiance of United Nations resolutions calling for a plebiscite in Kashmir, noting that this diplomatic impasse prompted Pakistan to strengthen its military alliances by joining SEATO and CENTO.
Drawing on his personal experience as a young captain during the war, Lt. Gen. Haider vividly described his role at the Akhnoor front, where he and his comrades engaged the enemy with unwavering determination. He lauded the Pakistan Army’s outstanding performance during the war, highlighting how, despite being outnumbered, they fought valiantly and achieved victory by any measure of success.
Air Commodore (R) Zahid ul Hassan highlighted the strategic brilliance of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) during the conflict. He recounted how Pakistan became increasingly vulnerable following the Sino-Indian War and the U.S. decision to arm India against China. Given India’s rigid stance on Kashmir, Pakistan had no choice but to prepare for military confrontation. Air Commodore Hassan highlighted with pride the PAF’s dominance, noting that it shot down 35 Indian aircraft, 19 of which were mid-air strikes. He emphasized that Pakistan’s air superiority over the entire battlefront played a decisive role in securing the victory.
Commodore (R) Syed Muhammad Obaidullah explored the achievements of the Pakistan Navy, particularly during Operation Dwarka and Operation Somnath. These successful naval operations not only inflicted significant damage on the Indian Air Force but also dented the morale of the Indian nation. Commodore Obaidullah pointed out that despite Pakistan’s naval strength being outnumbered in a 5:1 ratio, the professional expertise of the Pakistani forces and their unshakable faith in Allah allowed them to outshine their adversaries. He also praised the unity of the nation and the international support from countries like Indonesia, Iran, and Malaysia during the war.
Dr. Uzma Shujaat offered a civilian perspective on the challenges of warfare in the 21st century. She highlighted the devastating human toll of modern conflicts, citing that over 60 million people have been displaced globally due to wars. She emphasized the importance of addressing non-traditional security threats such as Climate change and food insecurity, which are exacerbated by population growth. Dr. Shujaat called for a renewed national character and a stronger connection to the homeland, asserting that such a mindset would be key in tackling both conventional and non-conventional challenges efficiently.
Due to a time constraint, Syed Samiullah graciously opted to forgo his speech, instead dedicating his allotted time to the question-and-answer session, allowing for greater audience engagement. In contrast, Sadia Raza captivated the audience with her soulful renditions of national songs, evoking memories of the 1965 war and inspiring listeners throughout the event.
The session concluded on a high note with heartfelt gratitude from the Chairman RFI, Nusrat Mirza, followed by the presentation of shields to the distinguished speakers as a token of appreciation. The event was extensively covered by prominent media outlets, including renowned TV channels, newspapers, and the Press Information Department of Sindh.
