Daily Times

ISLAMABAD: Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah has made it clear that the world can no longer be misguided by the litany of falsehoods to divert global attention from atrocities in Indian-held Kashmir (IHK) or attempts at seeking refuge through concocted stories.

He was addressing the passing out parade of the 35th graduate course at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul on Saturday. “We, in Pakistan, have a history of facing perils and successfully surmounting them. The challenges that this young nation has faced over the past few decades have made us more resilient and stronger. The unresolved disputes that continue to smoulder, and the daunting challenges that lie ahead, mandate that we maintain a constant vigil on the internal as well as external fronts,” the naval chief said.

He said the nation’s commitment to eradicate the menace of terrorism and extremism from the country remains unwavering. Operation Zarb-e-Azb was nearing conclusion and pursuance of National Action Plan exemplifies the commitment and resolve of the entire nation and its armed forces to defeat this scourge, he said.

The chief of naval staff said that the Pakistan Army, being one of the most battle-hardened and professional armies in the world, had rendered enormous sacrifices of officers and men. “The numerous chapters of success have indeed been inscribed with the blood of the country’s valiant soldiers, sailors and airmen.” He said that Pakistan remained undeterred and would continue its march until “we have secured our homeland against forces inimical to our progress and prosperity”.

Admiral Zakaullah said that while IHK continued to bleed, Pakistan was being continuously subjected to a volley of false accusations by India. “Let me reiterate the fact that Pakistan is a peace-loving country and seeks harmonious and peaceful coexistence with all its neighbours.”