Strong armed forces ensure peace, stability: Gen
Kayani
Karachi—Pakistan stands committed to global and
regional peace and wishes to live in peace and harmony with all its
neighbours.
This was stated by the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), Gen. Ashfaq
Parvez Kayani.
He was speaking as the chief guest at the 91st Mid-Shipmen
Commissioning Parade here at the Pakistan Naval Academy (PNA) on
Friday.
The COAS said that Pakistan will not enter into any arms race but
will maintain balance through a strategy of minimum credible
deterrence.
Strong armed forces of Pakistan are guarantor of peace and
stability, he added.
Gen. Kayani pointed out that today Pakistan is confronted with
multifaceted challenges.
It is complex in its nature. Its spectrum is both diverse and
intense, he said.
He said that while external threat to Pakistan continues to exist,
it is the internal threat that merits country and its people’s
immediate attention. The COAS said that the forces of extremism and
terrorism pose a threat to the national security and stability. He
stated that country’s fight against extremism and terrorism is fully
supported by the nation.
Our nation is proud of its soldiers, airmen and sailors who have
laid their lives in recent operations, he said.
Let me assure you that in line with our proud traditions, the armed
forces of Pakistan will never flinch whenever the nation gives us a
call”, the COAS remarked.
I can say with conviction that with the help of the people of
Pakistan, we will succeed in our fight against terrorism”, he added.
The COAS told the passing out mid-shipmen that the PNA has provided
them with a solid foundation in line with its highest traditions of
excellence.
The nation has reposed its trust in you. Now it is your
responsibility to uphold that trust as professional sailors. It is
your duty to come up to the expectations of the nation and the
Navy”, he added.
I pray that Allah Almighty gives you the courage and strength to
discharge your responsibilities in the best interest of Pakistan”
Gen. Kayani remarked adding that “ To live up to the traditions of
Pakistan Navy you have to work hard. You are expected not only to
live to the glorious traditions of PN but also to further strengthen
it by your own accomplishments and achievements”.
The COAS also told the commissioning mid-shipmen that their
professionalism and conduct will be watched closely by their
subordinates and therefore their behaviour must always remain
exemplary.
He also reminded them that the only way to lead is to lead from the
front.
On the occasion, Gen. Kayani also congratulated the passing out
mid-shipmen.
The Chief of the Army Staff also reviewed the commissioning parade.
The Commandant of the PNA, Commodore Muhammad Hisham, presented the
welcome address.
As many as 80 Midshipmen have passed out on this very occasion, it
was pointed out.
Earlier, on arrival at the PNA, the COAS was received by the Naval
Chief, Admiral Noman Bashir.
The COAS awarded the Sword of Honour to mid-shipman Zeeshan Zafar,
the CJCSC gold medal to Cadet Muhammad Arsalan, Academy’s Dirk to
mid-shipman Sohaib Leghari. The Quaid-i-Azam Gold Medal was later
received by Muhammad Raza, father of Sub. Lt. Asif Raza who is
abroad in connection with training.—APP
