Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that Pakistan is currently facing a regional and global environment where security challenges are constantly taking new forms; however, the country will continue to take all possible steps to protect its national security while adhering to the policy of peace, dialogue and diplomacy.
Addressing the passing-out parade of the Pakistan Naval Academy in Karachi on Saturday, the Prime Minister said that Pakistan is facing external and internal threats simultaneously. He alleged that India is resorting to covert methods and proxy elements to affect peace and stability in Pakistan after the conflict in May last year; however, the Pakistani nation and armed forces are united to counter all such efforts.
He said that terrorism sponsored from the western borders also remains a serious problem for Pakistan, but the security forces are continuously carrying out successful operations. According to the Prime Minister, the entire nation stands with its brave forces and is determined to eliminate all kinds of threats, including terrorism.
The Prime Minister made it clear that Pakistan prefers dialogue and diplomatic means over force to resolve any dispute. He said that the country’s foreign policy aims to promote peace, stability and mutual cooperation in the region, while there can be no compromise on protecting national sovereignty and security.
In his address, the Prime Minister also mentioned the global scenario and said that recent international changes have affected political, economic and defence priorities around the world. He said that Pakistan is playing its role as a responsible and peace-loving state in such circumstances.
Referring to Pakistan’s role in the recent reconciliation process between the US and Iran, he said that the diplomatic progress made with the support of friendly countries is proof that Pakistan has been playing a serious role in efforts to reduce regional tensions and promote dialogue.
The Prime Minister also appreciated the efforts made by Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir for promoting peace and said that his services in bringing various parties to the negotiating table are commendable. He termed the recent visit of Iranian President Dr Masoud Peshmerga to Pakistan as a symbol of strong brotherly relations and regional cooperation between the two countries.
The Prime Minister said that the changing global situation has further increased the importance of maritime security. According to him, safe sea routes have become indispensable for international trade, energy supply and continuity of global supply chains. He assured that the government will continue its full support to make the Pakistan Navy a stronger, modern and effective defence force.
He said that modern technology, artificial intelligence, unmanned systems and new defence strategies have become part of the future naval warfare requirements; therefore, the Pakistan Navy is also improving its capabilities according to these requirements.
The prime minister congratulated the cadets from Pakistan and Turkey, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Iraq, Sri Lanka and Djibouti who completed their training and said that the professional training they received here will help them serve effectively in their respective navies in the future.
Addressing the young officers, he said that the navy uniform is not only an honour but also a great responsibility. He urged the officers to make honesty, discipline, loyalty, courage and professionalism a part of their practical life and ensure the protection of national interests in every difficult situation.
The Prime Minister concluded his address by saying that Pakistan, as a responsible and peace-loving country, will continue its efforts for stability in the region, while defence preparedness, national unity and strong institutions are the guarantee of the country’s security and development.
