October 28, 2007	Sunday	Shawwal 15, 1428

ISLAMABAD, Oct 27: Vice Chief of the Army Staff (VCOAS) Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani has observed that a comprehensive national effort was a must to defeat the full spectrum of threats facing the country.

He said the Pakistan Army would spare no effort as part of the national strategy to assist the government and eradicate the menace of extremism and obscurantism with the support and help of the people.

“We would like to continue on the path of progress, so that our future generations live in peace, prosperity and security”, he said while speaking at the passing-out parade of 116 PMA, 30 Graduate, 35 Integrated Course and 2nd Ladies Integrated Course at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) in Kakul on Saturday.

According to a press release issued by the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) Directorate, the VCOAS said the country was facing a difficult environment.

“External dynamics are impacting negatively on our security and stability and unprecedented arms build up and interests of extra regional players have compounded instability in the region.

“Internally, our country is facing a significant threat from forces of extremism and obscurantism. Despite being in minority, they have the potential to destabilise our socio-political order and retard economic progress achieved in the last decade.”

Addressing the cadets, Gen Kayani said that today they would join Pakistan Army, which was a proud and professional institution with rich history and valued traditions. Army is a national institution with representation from all parts of the country, he added.

He said that the army had never been in better shape than what it was today. “Our modernisation plans would enable us to effectively meet the challenges of the present and future conflicts. Pakistan Army is fully capable of ensuring security and integrity of Pakistan, with the people of Pakistan firmly behind us,” he noted.

The VCOAS thanked the nation for sacrificing so much and providing the army with resources and support to remain fully prepared.

“We must uphold the trust by making the defence of Pakistan impregnable. Presently, the army is engaged in multi-faceted tasks both inside and outside. As the largest troops contributing country, we remain engaged in service of peace under the United Nations’ banner and our performance has been praised globally,” he said.

Internally, we are undertaking a number of development works, specially in the tribal areas and Balochistan for the good of the people. The army will continue its contribution in such tasks with unflinching zeal and commitment, he added.