Desiring Peace: Armed forces ready for external threat, says Gen Kayani

Pakistan has overcome several challenges that would have overwhelmed lesser nations: Kayani

KAKUL:

Chief of Army Staff Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani has said that, despite their current focus on internal security, Pakistan’s armed forces are fully prepared to defeat any direct external threat.

“We have exercised restraint in the face of some very belligerent statements in recent months … Our quest for peace is based on a genuine desire to improve our lot and that of our future generations. Let no one see it as a weakness,” he said while addressing the graduating cadets of the 127th PMA Long Course, Integrated Course 46 and Mujahid Course-1 at the Pakistan Military Academy Kakul, Abbottabad, on Saturday.

In its short history, Pakistan has overcome several challenges that would have overwhelmed lesser nations, said Gen Kayani, expressing confidence that the nation could do it again.

“We are going through difficult times, but so has every other successful nation at some time in their history,” he noted, adding that with the nation backing a strong Pakistan Army, no harm could ever come to the country.

Addressing the cadets, the army chief said he felt honoured and privileged to review the passing-out parade. “This day marks the culmination of your basic military training at an institution which stands out with distinction amongst the leading military academies of the world.”

He felicitated cadets for becoming part of Pakistan Army. “I have full trust that you will never hesitate to always place your country, Pakistan Army and your men before your own selves.”  Gen Kayani also congratulated the graduating cadets from Palestine, Sudan and Turkmenistan.


Published in The Express Tribune, April 21^st, 2013.