'Armed forces fully prepared to respond to any challenge'

Published October 14, 2015
Para-gliders landing during the passing out parade at PAF Academy Risalpur. —APP
Para-gliders landing during the passing out parade at PAF Academy Risalpur. —APP
Sherdils present aerobatic display during the passing out parade at PAF Academy Risalpur. —APP
Sherdils present aerobatic display during the passing out parade at PAF Academy Risalpur. —APP

RISALPUR: Naval Chief Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah said Wednesday that Pakistan is a peace-loving country and seeks a harmonious co-existence with all countries.

Addressing the passing out parade at Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Academy here, Zakaullah stressed that Pakistan's desire for peace must not be construed as a sign of weakness, reported Radio Pakistan.

The naval chief said any attempt to browbeat Pakistan would neither succeed nor serve the purpose of peace and prosperity in the region.

The valiant armed forces of Pakistan are fully geared up to give a befitting response in case of any misadventure, he said.

Admiral Zakaullah said in the current security scenario certain extremist elements abetted externally are out to disrupt peace and harmony in Pakistan.

He said the PAF has extended all out support to Pakistan Army in combating anti-state elements in operation Zarb-i-Azb.

Military operation Zarb-i-Azb was launched in North Waziristan on June 15 following a brazen militant attack on Karachi's international airport and the failure of peace talks between the government and Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) negotiators.

Security forces have since vowed to intensify operations, using air strikes, artillery and mortars to take back territory both in the border regions and other parts of the country. The army says it has cleared most of North Waziristan.

The final phase of Zarb-i-Azb got under way in August this year as troops launched a ground offensive in Shawal Valley, one of the last strongholds of militants in the region.

Opinion

Editorial

United stance
Updated 13 Nov, 2024

United stance

It would've been better if the OIC-Arab League summit had announced practical measures to punish Israel.
Unscheduled visit
13 Nov, 2024

Unscheduled visit

Unusual IMF visit shows the lender will closely watch implementation of programme goals to prevent it from derailing.
Bara’s businesswomen
13 Nov, 2024

Bara’s businesswomen

Bara’s brave women have proven that with the right support, societal barriers can be overcome.
System failure
Updated 12 Nov, 2024

System failure

Relevant institutions often treat right to internet connectivity with the same disdain as they do civil and political rights.
Narrowing the gap
12 Nov, 2024

Narrowing the gap

PERHAPS a pat on the back is in order for the ECP. Together with Nadra, it has made visible efforts to reduce...
Back on their feet
12 Nov, 2024

Back on their feet

A STIRRING comeback in the series has ended Pakistan’s 22-year wait for victory against world champions Australia....