KARACHI, June 4: Air Chief Marshal Tahir Rafique Butt, chief of the air staff, Pakistan Air Force, has said that the country is faced with both external and internal threats and urged the PAF men to be ready to face such threats boldly.

He was speaking at a gathering during his visit to a training base of the southern air command to inspect training facilities, capabilities and functioning of training units on Tuesday.

During his visit, he interacted with airmen and civilians at the base. He visited work centres, technical labs and school/college of the base.

The air chief lauded the training efforts and preparedness of PAF training units, an ISPR press release said.

On his arrival at the base, a smartly turned out contingent presented guard of honour. The air chief reviewed the parade.

Speaking at a formal gathering, the air chief said: “We have external and internal threats and we have to be ready and prepared to face all such threats boldly.

“It is only possible if we are mentally and physically fit; everyone has to be well aware of the importance of physical fitness.

“We must have intellectually honest, self-motivated and confident manpower. Every member of PAF team working anywhere at any time should play a responsible role.”

He further said: “Our predecessors have worked very hard to achieve this standard of training and preparedness and these standards have to be continuously evolved and improved. As far as operational preparedness is concerned, we keep conducting inland and foreign exercises with friendly countries. All the countries have appreciated flying professionalism, discipline, conduct and preparedness of our personnel. PAF will approach the newly elected government for enhancing the resources for the welfare of its personnel and their families.”

Earlier on his arrival at the base he was received by Air Vice Marshal Muhammad Iqbal, air officer commanding, southern air command.—PPI