KABUL : On the run-up to the planned signing of a peace deal between the Untied States and the Taliban, Afghans across the nation on Friday marked National Armed Forces Day to honor the service and sacrifice of members of the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF), the state-run TV channel reported.

"The National Day of Armed Forces is the greatest day, it is the greatest respect for people of Afghanistan and the state government to celebrate this great day," Afghan President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani told a ceremony held at country's Defence Ministry and broadcasted live in Radio Television of Afghanistan. During the day, Afghans gave flowers to members of the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) to express their love and support.

"Your morale is unique. You are the real guardians of Afghanistan's Constitution and you are the guardians of this land, the great nation of Afghanistan stands behind you," Ghani said.

Earlier in the day, Ghani laid a wreath at a minaret inside the ministry's compound after inspecting guards of honour to pay tribute to security forces who have sacrificed their lives for peace and security, Xinhua reported.

The Afghan National Defence and Security Forces (ANDSF) has been continuing cleanup operations across Afghanistan in recent months as daily violence and clashes remain in the country. Eligible military officers and soldiers received awards and medals from the President and other high-ranking officials during the ceremony.

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