ISLAMABAD, Aug 21: President Gen Pervez Musharraf has said that Pakistan stands for peace and that it does not have any aggressive designs against anyone, but would never compromise on the country‘s sovereignty and security.

According to a press release issued here by the ISPR, the president made these remarks during a visit to the Headquarters of Army Strategic Forces Command (ASFC) on Thursday.

President Musharraf, who was accompanied by the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Vice-Chief of Army Staff and other senior officers, stated that in view of the external threat, the country was committed to maintaining a minimum credible deterrence in both conventional and unconventional fields.

This deterrence had been carefully analyzed and quantified taking into account comparative strength, equipment and force levels.

Gen Musharraf expressed his complete satisfaction on the progress made by the force and appreciated the dedication, commitment and professionalism of all ranks in the ASFC, who have spared no effort in making it an effective and viable force in a short span of four years.

He particularly noted the measures adopted for command and control and security of the strategic assets. The president urged the officers and men to continue working with the same zeal and enthusiasm as the ASFC reflected the nation’s pride and aspirations.

On his arrival, the president was received by Commander ASFC, Lieutenant General Ghulam Mustafa. The president stayed in the headquarters for sometime during which he was given a detailed briefing regarding the progress made by HQ ASFC since it was raised in March, 2000.