Farewell reception: ‘Gen Rashad performed his duties with commitment’

PM hosts luncheon for outgoing CJCSC due to retire on November 27

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday hosted a farewell reception for the outgoing Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Rashad Mahmood at the PM House.

In his remarks at the luncheon, the prime minister said General Rashad Mehmood performed his duties with “skill, competence and complete commitment”.

The premier said General Rashad was chosen for the prestigious position for his leadership qualities and because of his vision for the armed forces.

“His elevation to this position also holds itself to the fact that we needed a military leader who could give candid and sincere advice to enable us to tackle threats from terrorism and other external sources,” he said.

Nawaz said as Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, General Rashad Mehmood fulfilled his responsibilities to enhance the operational capabilities of armed forces, inter-services cooperation and developing well-integrated force for the defence of the country.

“General Rashad Mehmood, you served the nation well. The armed forces benefitted from your leadership and we are proud of you. You will always be held in the highest of esteem by all,” the prime minister said.

He also mentioned that General Rashad worked to develop close relationship with military leaders of the friendly countries, earning high praise for his military diplomacy.

General Rashad Mehmood will retire from his service on November 27.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 24^th, 2016.