September 28, 2006	Thursday	Ramazan 4, 1427

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ISLAMABAD Sept 27: Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz said on Thursday that only credible defence preparedness could guarantee peace and security in South Asia.

He was talking to federal Minister for Defence Rao Sikandar Iqbal who had called on him at the Prime Minister’s House.

Premier Aziz said that armed forces would be provided with all necessary resources so that we maintain a credible level of defence capability.

He said that Pakistan doesn’t believe in arms race with any country but a strong defence capability was necessary for regional stability and it was also vital to ensure sustainable peace.

The prime minister appreciated the defence minister and the Armed Forces for recruiting personnel from all over the country specially the recent induction of women fighter pilots and army personnel.

He asserted that this will go a long way in providing women with opportunities to participate in the defence of the country.

The prime minister particularly noted the award of the “Sword of Honour” to the first woman pilot of Pakistan Air Force and added that this step will augur well for the increasing role of women in the armed forces and will serve as an example for all women of the country.

Earlier, the defence minister briefed the prime minister on the modernization and upgradation plans of the three services.

The prime minister assured the defence minister of provision of necessary resources to meet the country’s strategic needs.

The relief, rescue and rehabilitation work conducted by the armed forces is commendable, he added.