The late President's death anniversary this year was dedicated to those who were killed in Kashmir and the Kargil conflict. People from different parts of the country came to attend the event. Special arrangements were made to bring Zia's well-wishers to Faisal Mosque, where the late general is buried. Zia died in an air crash in Pakistan along with the then US ambassador to Pakistan, Arnold Raphel.

Sharif, remembering the endeavours of Zia, said his contribution to the jehad (holy war) in Kashmir and Afghanistan marked a golden chapter in the history of Pakistan. He resolved to carry that mission forward.