KARACHI, Dec 23: The Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Shahid Karimullah, said on Monday that the government was cognizant of the naval deterrence and has given approval to negotiate with China for construction of frigates.

The program, if the negotiations were successful, would not only strengthen Pakistan Navy but would also be a gigantic leap forward in country’s quest for self-reliance, he said while speaking at the 78th midshipmen commissioning parade held at the Pakistan Naval Academy, here this morning.

“The nations may achieve their objectives through application of a coercive maritime diplomacy without going to war and we have also witnessed that a threatening situation at sea requires only a day or two to develop. That is why it is important that conventional deterrence is maintained at sea,” he said, adding that by the grace of Allah, Pakistan Navy had been successful in deterring the enemy during the recent escalation at sea.

The Naval Chief said to the passing out midshipmen that their prime responsibility was to deter the enemy from undertaking misadventures. He reminded the officers that performing their duty well and to be ready for war was not only a job requirement but it was also a national obligation.

Admiral Shahid expressed satisfaction that Navy had been able to extend training to the cadets from friendly countries and hoped that they would carry happy memories of their stay in Pakistan.

Earlier, in his welcome address the Commandant of Pakistan Naval Academy, Commodore Muhammad Zakaullah, highlighted the salient features of the training. He said that character building was a vital part of the cadet training.

Later, the chief guest gave away prizes to the cadets showing outstanding performance. Cadet Imran Khan was awarded the chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Gold Medal. The coveted Sword of Honour was given to Midshipman, Raja Imran Sikandar, for his best all round performance. The Pakistan Naval Academy dirk was given to Midshipman, Muhammad Fahad Malik. The Main Top Squadron was declared the winner of the Proficiency Banner.—PPI