Pakistan fully capable to respond to any spectrum of threat: PM

Nawaz addresses passing out PAF cadets at Asghar Khan Academy in Risalpur

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Tuesday said Pakistan Armed Forces is fully capable to respond to any spectrum of threat.

“Pakistan is a peace-loving nation and has always maintained the policy of having amicable relations with other countries particularly its neighbours,” Nawaz said in his address at the passing out parade of cadets at the Pakistan Air Force’s Asghar Khan Academy in Risalpur.

Pakistan Air Force’s Sherdil Squadron makes a fly-past over Asghar Khan Academy at Risalpur on the occasion of the passing-out of PAF cadets on Tuesday, April 11, 2017. PHOTO: twitter.com/MuddyKan

The prime minister said Pakistan wanted peaceful relations with its neighbours and upheld the country “will never hesitate to extend the hand of friendship to all and will never waiver from returning goodwill with even more goodwill.”



The premier went on to say that cooperation rather than conflict and shared prosperity rather than mutual suspicion was the hallmark of his government’s policy but “despite our desire for peaceful coexistence, we can’t remain oblivious to defending our sovereignty and protecting our independence.”

Noting that in today’s world, the war no longer remained an exclusive sphere of military forces Nawaz said, “We are living in a rapidly evolving world and the traditional concept of national security has undergone a transformation.”

Sharing his views on the war against terror, the prime minister expressed his satisfaction over what he called a "tremendous improvement" in the internal security environment. “Pakistan Air Force has played a critical role in Operation Zarb-e-Azb,” he said, adding the nation acknowledged the exemplary valour and outstanding professionalism by armed forces at all tiers.

Earlier, the PM reviewed the parade and presented awards to cadets. PAF’s Sherdil Squadron also displayed a splendid air display on the occasion. Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor Iqbal Zafar Jhagra, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Air Chief Suhail Aman, diplomats and other civil and military officials were also present.