The Pakistani High Commissioner to Nigeria, retired Maj.-Gen. Sohail Khan, has reaffirmed Pakistan’s position as a key player in international forums and a reliable partner in the global fight against terrorism.
Khan made the remarks on Monday night in Abuja at a reception organised by the High Commission to commemorate Pakistan’s National Day and Defence Day. Though the country’s National Day is usually marked on August 14, the celebration was shifted to September to coincide with Defence Day.
The envoy noted that Pakistan’s active participation in international platforms has made it a significant contributor to global peace and security.
“Today, our nation stands tall on the world stage, contributing to global peace, economic growth, and human development,” he said. “Pakistan is a reliable partner in counter-terrorism efforts, a key player in international forums, and a voice for justice in regions such as Kashmir and Palestine.”
He highlighted Pakistan’s long-standing contributions to United Nations peacekeeping missions, with over 200,000 troops deployed since 1960, as evidence of its commitment to global stability.
On the economic front, Khan described Pakistan as a major force in agriculture and global trade, ranking fifth in cotton production, fourth in rice, and among the top ten producers of wheat, mangoes, dates, and oranges. He also noted the country’s reputation as a leading supplier of sports goods.
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“Pakistan continues to shine in global food security and productivity. It is also home to the world’s second-highest peak, K2, and boasts five of the world’s 14 tallest mountains,” he said.
Khan further paid tribute to Pakistan’s armed forces, ranked 12th in the 2025 Global Firepower Index, stressing their courage and sacrifices in combating terrorism. He said more than 80,000 personnel had laid down their lives in the fight to safeguard both their homeland and international peace.
He added that Pakistan’s strategic forces have positioned it as a responsible nuclear state, citing the “recent success of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos against Indian aggression in May 2025” as proof of the country’s military strength.
On bilateral relations, Khan praised Pakistan’s decades-long ties with Nigeria, describing the relationship as one built on “brotherhood, friendship, trust, and strategic partnership.” He emphasised that the growing cooperation covers trade, the economy, and defence across all branches of the armed services.
“As we commemorate our independence and defence day, let us renew our commitment to building a stronger Pakistan – one that leads in innovation, peace, and prosperity. Together, we are unbreakable,” the envoy said.
