Pakistan's desire for peace must not be taken as sign of weakness: PM

KARACHI (Dunya News) - While addressing the Commissioning Parade at Pakistan Naval Academy today (Saturday), Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi said that Pakistan believes in peaceful co-existence and friendly neighbourhood.

“Pakistan does not harbour any aggressive designs. However, Pakistan’s desire for peace must not be taken as a sign of weakness or indifference to the developments taking place in the region. Any disguised or unnatural arrangement for supremacy would neither succeed nor serve the purpose of peace and stability,” the PM stated.

He highlighted that the people of this region deserve better quality of life, progress and prosperity and that can only be achieved by following a policy of cooperation and coherence. We ought to engage constructively and direct our energies towards the common good of our people.

The premier also expressed his satisfaction by stating that Pakistan Navy has been effectively contributing to the overall deterrence and national security.

“In wake of game-changing development of CPEC with Gwadar Port as its ‘pivot and enabler’, maritime security all along the coast has assumed greater significance. Wherein, it is reassuring to note that Pakistan Navy is resolute and vigilant to safeguard Pakistan’s maritime interests. Government also remains determined to make all necessary resources available to strengthen Pakistan Navy for making the seaward defence impregnable and promoting the blue economy.”

While congratulating and extending felicitations on achieving this milestone, the Chief Guest advised young officers to lead by their conduct, character, knowledge and foresight. He said a leader is always courageous and steadfast, yet opens to new ideas and remains calm and composed even in the face of adversity. Instill unity and a sense of purpose in your team and always ensure that interests of the State remain over and above any individual consideration.

Earlier in his welcome address, Commodore Syed Faisal Hameed, Commandant Pakistan Naval Academy highlighted the salient features of the officers’ training. He apprised the audience that the commissioning term was comprised 103 Midshipmen including 57 from Pakistan, 22 from Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, 15 from Qatar and 9 from Bahrain. He added that 26 Cadets from Short Service Commission course were also commissioned.

Commissioning term stands alert during the address of the Prime Minister at 108th Midshipmen commissioning and 17th SSC. passing out parade of Pakistan Naval Academy.

Later, the Prime Minister gave away prizes to the winners. Midshipman Syed lrtaza Haider Naqvi was awarded the coveted Sword of Honour for his overall best performance.

Midshipman Irtiza Haider Naqvi receiving the Sword of Honour from the Prime Minister during 108th Midshipmen commissioning parade of Pakistan Naval Academy.

Midshipman Muhammad Aftab Nabi won the Academy’s Dirk, Cadet Dayyan Ahmed was given Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Gold Medal, Cadet Abdulla Shaheen from Bahrain was awarded Chief of the Naval Staff Gold Medal and Cadet Muhammad Mohsin Habib clinched the Commandant Gold Medal.

Proficiency Banner was awarded to Forecastle Squadron.

Prime Minister of Pakistan awarding proficiency banner to the winner (Foxl squadron) at 108th Midshipmen Commissioning Parade of Pakistan Naval Academy

PM Abbasi, Chief of the Naval Staff and other senior officials of Pak Navy in a group photo with Prize winners of 108th Midshipmen Commissioning Parade of Pakistan Naval Academy.

Pakistan Naval Academy was established in Dec 1970 to train young cadets of Pakistan Navy. It’s a prestigious institution, which besides training PN Cadets, has trained more than 2200 cadets from 20 friendly countries. Some of whom have served at top positions in respective countries.