‘Tea is Fantastic’ 5th anniversary marked as Pakistan commemorates ‘Operation Swift Retort’

February 27th marks the fifth anniversary of a day stored in the memories of Pakistanis as “Tea is Fantastic”. "Operation Swift Retort" was commemorated on Tuesday to pay tribute to the valiant Armed Forces of Pakistan for demonstrating their resilience and resolve against Indian attempt to carry out a misadventure, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.

On this day in 2019, Pakistan Air Force successfully defended the motherland and shot down Indian planes that had violated Pakistani airspace and also captured Indian pilot.

A statement issued by the Inter Services Public Relations said February 27, 2019, marked a significant event in our history, demonstrating the resolve of the people of Pakistan and the professionalism of the Armed Forces in response to unwarranted aggression from India, motivated by political considerations and electoral concerns.

The Armed Forces of Pakistan vowed that any aggression against the people of Pakistan, its sovereignty and territorial integrity, will be responded immediately with full might and without any hesitation.

Indian pilot Abhinandan Varthaman was captured by Pakistani forces after the shooting down of the Indian warplanes.

During his time in Pakistan's custody, a video of Abhinandan enjoying a cup of tea went viral on social media. His casual demeanour and appreciation for the simple act of enjoying a cup of tea, even amidst his capture, resonated with many. This gesture sparked a wave of national pride and became a symbol of resilience for many Pakistanis.

The viral video, showcasing Abhinandan's respect for the code of conduct and his appreciation for Pakistani hospitality, resonated with the public. The hashtag "#TsFantastic" trended for 36 hours, highlighting the unexpected turn of events and the subsequent social media buzz.

Armed Forces vow befitting response to any aggression

Armed Forces of Pakistan have vowed that any aggression against the people of Pakistan, its sovereignty and territorial integrity, will be responded immediately with full might and without any hesitation.

On the commemoration of fifth anniversary of "Operation Swift Retort" today, the Inter Services Public Relations in a statement said February 27, 2019, marked a significant event in our history, demonstrating the resolve of the people of Pakistan and the professionalism of the Armed Forces in response to unwarranted aggression from India, motivated by political considerations and electoral concerns.

The statement said despite desperate Indian attempts to favorably shape the information space, the events of that fateful day showcased absolute operational ascendance of Pakistan's Armed Forces over the Indian side.

It added that the steadfastness and competence of Pakistan's Armed Forces were acknowledged by military experts and analysts throughout the world, effectively debunking frivolous Indian claims which could not stand to factual scrutiny.

The strategic foresight to return the downed pilot in interest of peace, from a position of strength and after having dominated the opposing force decisively, is unanimously hailed, to this day, by the international community as a remarkable gesture of political maturity and superior statecraft.

The statement concluded by saying that as a state committed to peace, Pakistan shall continue to emphasize the importance of peaceful coexistence with its neighbours.