KARACHI(National Times)- Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Saturday that India was increasingly resorting to “covert tactics and the use of proxies” in an attempt to undermine peace and stability in Pakistan.
“Pakistan is navigating conflicts and multi-faceted security challenges, marked by a dangerous combination of international and internal threats. Our eastern neighbour, having suffered a humiliating defeat in the conflict in May last year, has increasingly resorted to covert tactics and the use of proxies in an attempt to undermine the hard-earned peace and stability in our country,” the premier said while addressing the passing out parade at the Pakistan Naval Academy in Karachi during a one-day visit to the metropolis.
“At the same time, our valiant armed forces continue to confront the menace of foreign-sponsored terrorism emanating from our western borders. The entire Pakistani nation stands shoulder-to-shoulder with its brave armed forces. The entire country remains steadfast in its iron resolve to defeat the nefarious designs of our enemies, while continuing to pursue peace, dialogue and diplomacy to address all outstanding disputes,” he said.
He also asserted that Pakistan remained resolute in its commitment to advocating the cause of the Kashmiris, the Gazans and the Palestinians.
In his remarks, PM Shehbaz also said that his address was taking place “in the backdrop of monumental global developments that are affecting our lives in ways unimaginable before”.
“Pakistan stands proud as a peacemaker in the comity of nations. Pakistan’s sincere mediation efforts with the support of brotherly and friendly countries led to the historic signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and Iran, which I also had the honour of signing as a mediator,” the premier added.
He paid special tribute to the Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir for “his untiring efforts … to bring all parties together to follow the path of peace and tranquillity”.
PM Shehbaz also referred to the recent visit of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Pakistan, saying it was “not only a manifestation of the strong brotherly ties between Pakistan and Iran but also an acknowledgment of Pakistan’s important role to promote peace in the region”.
In his address, the prime minister noted that the evolving regional situation has “highlighted more than anything else the importance of maritime security for the global economy and international supply chains”.
“Today, the right of free passage and freedom of navigation are no longer luxuries but [they] have become an absolute necessity for the entire world,” he added.
He assured that the government remained “fully committed to strengthening Pakistan Navy as a potent and effective force … that is not only capable of ensuring our national defence, but also acting as a stabilising force in the wider maritime region”.
Addressing the graduating cadets, the premier extended congratulations on the successful completion of their rigorous training and transition into commission service as officers of the Pakistan Navy. He said he was particularly delighted to see young officers from brotherly countries of Turkiye, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Iraq, Sri Lanka and Djibouti at the parade.
“I am confident that the knowledge training and professional experience acquired at this esteemed training institution will prove very valuable to them throughout their careers and they will contribute meaningfully to the operational effectiveness of the respective navies,” he said.
“I am confident that the officers commissioned today will leave these grounds equipped not only with knowledge and skills, but also with great confidence, resilience and fighting spirit required to meet future challenges and uphold the finest traditions of their respective navies,” he added.
He also said that they were joining the Pakistan Navy at a time of “profound transformation and unprecedented opportunities”.
“As the maritime domain evolves, the navy is embracing cutting-edge technologies, artificial intelligence and unmanned systems to meet emerging challenges,” he said, urging them to “remain steadfast in the values of commitment, courage, discipline, integrity and loyalty”.
“The rank you wear on your shoulders today carries immense responsibility. As you embark on this noble profession, always remember: calm waters do not test a sailor nor do fair winds define a captain. It is the rough seas and strong winds that test one’s mettle,” he said.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), PM Shehbaz had arrived in Karachi on Saturday morning, where he was welcomed by Sindh Governor Nehal Hashmi and Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and Information Minister Ataullah Tarrar also accompanied PM Shehbaz on the visit.
