City shines as global defence hub

Armed forces display combat capabilities at Sea View Beach

KARACHI:

As part of ongoing International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS) 2024, a magnificent Karachi show was organised for the citizens at Nishan Pakistan Park Sea View. The three armed forces demonstrated their combat capabilities in the event.

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah attended the event as a chief guest, and Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf was also present at the event.

Commandos of Pakistan Navy's Special Services Group demonstrated counter-terrorism exercise, during which armed terrorist enter a facility. Commandos were landed to shore by Sea King helicopter after terrorists armed with modern weapons entered a facility. Commandos approached the target from open sea using Navy hovercraft and speedboats and caught the terrorists.

Paratroopers of the three armed forces, carrying Green Crescent Flag conducted a free-fall from 10,000 feet followed by a rainbow-coloured parachute descent.

Military personnel who had sacrificed their body parts in battle field and during mine clearance operations participated in a basketball match.

A cavalry troop also performed a stunning horse-riding demonstration.

Addressing the audience at the Nishan-e-Pakistan monument, the chief minister stressed Pakistan's unwavering commitment to peace, underscoring the theme of this year's exhibition, "Arms for Peace."

IDEAS 2024, which brought together senior military officials, defence experts, diplomats, and industry leaders from around the world, offered a platform for fostering dialogue on critical global issues, including security, peace, and cooperation.

In his address, CM Shah expressed heartfelt gratitude to the international delegates for their participation. He highlighted that their presence reflected the importance of mutual collaboration in addressing shared challenges. "Events like these remind us of our collective responsibility in promoting peace, stability, and diplomacy across the globe," he added.

A standout feature of IDEAS 2024 was the Karachi Show, a live demonstration by Pakistan's armed forces, which included the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The CM noted that the show vividly highlighted Pakistan's readiness to defend its borders and uphold the values of freedom and democracy. In particular, special recognition was given to the Pakistan Navy for its impeccable display of professionalism and dedication to safeguarding the nation's maritime interests.

"Pakistan's military capabilities serve as a deterrent to aggression, not as a tool for conflict," CM Shah reiterated. He reaffirmed that the nation's approach of "strength for peace" remains central to its defence philosophy. "Our goal is not war, but peace and stability," he added.

IDEAS 2024 also provided a platform for Pakistan to demonstrate its progress in the defence sector, particularly in terms of indigenous military technology. The exhibition showcased products meeting international standards, underscoring Pakistan's strides toward self-reliance and technological advancement. Delegates from various countries explored avenues for cooperation, particularly in tackling shared global challenges such as terrorism, cybersecurity, climate change, and maritime security.

The chief minister concluded his address by emphasising the role of Karachi as a strategic hub for global maritime security and a host city for international events of such significance. He thanked the people of Karachi for their unwavering support and enthusiasm, which played a key role in the success of the event.

"The participation of our international guests is a powerful testament to the importance of dialogue and shared responsibility in maintaining regional and global security," CM Shah said. "Together, we can forge stronger partnerships, promote peace, and ensure a safer, more prosperous future for generations to come."