ISLAMABAD, April 26: The Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Gen Khalid Shamim Wynne, has said that Pakistan is a peace-loving country which has always followed the policy of friendly bonds and mutual goodwill with all countries across the world.

“However, in the recent security scenario where the extremist elements are trying to disrupt our peace and harmony our responsibilities have increased manifold.

“In this situation our defence forces in synergy are fighting this menace,” he said.

Gen Wynne was speaking at the graduation ceremony of 74 engineering course, 88 air defence and commissioning parade of 132 GD(P), 78 engineering course, and 13 A&SD and 01 navigation courses held at the PAF academy in Risalpur.

Air Chief Marshal Tahir Rafique Butt, Chief of the Air Staff, was also present.

Gen Wynne said that Pakistan Air Force alongside guarding the aerial frontiers of the country had been admirably supporting the Pakistan Army and Pakistan Navy in their efforts.

“The PAF possesses a variety of potent military equipment and new additions are always well-catered for to ensure best national defence. Being custodians of aerial frontiers, you will be required to operate and maintain the sophisticated and expensive aircraft and other equipment in the highest state of operational readiness.

“Being inheritors of the legacy of brave deeds of illustrious predecessors, the younger generation in defence forces has all potentials to emulate their deeds and set new examples of valour and dignity,” he said.

The Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee chairman awarded branch insignias to graduating officers and aviation cadets and gave away trophies to those who had achieved distinction in their exams and training. —Agencies