December 25, 2008	Thursday	Zilhaj 26, 1429

JAMSHORO, Dec 24: President Asif Ali Zardari said on Wednesday that Pakistan would never compromise on its sovereignty.

Freedom was the country’s ideology and the people of Pakistan would defend the country till the last drop of their blood, the president said, while addressing the 47th Parents’ Day ceremony at the Cadet College Petaro (CCP).

He said destiny had made him lead the country at a crucial juncture.

He recalled his days as a cadet in the college and said he still remembered some of the instructions of his teachers. He praised the training procedure and professional skill of the cadets at the college.

He announced a grant of Rs100 million for development work in different sections of the college.

He also announced a personal donation of Rs5 million for the college and a bonus of one month’s salary for all faculty members.

Principal Commodore Muhammad Aslam Rana said the presence of the president at the event reflected his interest in promotion of education in the country, adding that it was a matter of encouragement and inspiration for young cadets.

He said CCP, which was the largest residential cadet college in the country with 888 cadets, aimed at preparing young cadets for future challenges.

He said the college had been instrumental in providing outstanding cadets not only for the armed forces but for other fields.

Mr Zardari was received at the college by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah while guests accorded him a standing ovation.—APP