Graduation Ceremony at PAF Academy Risalpur – November 18, 2009

Chief of the Army Staff, General Ashfaq Pervez Kayani said that Pakistani nation stands fully united to confront the prevailing challenges and ensure that Pakistan of Quaid-e-Azam and Allama Iqbal is restored to its rightful identity.

He said that the armed forces of Pakistan are fully alive to the complete spectrum of threat that confronts the nation, adding let no one misjudge our resolve, we will Inshallah protect and defend Pakistan. He was addressing to the Graduation Ceremony of 123rd GDP Course as the Chief Guest in Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Academy Risalpur this evening. The Army Chief, underlining the existing challenges being faced by Pakistan, said that we have been challenged as never before and reiterated that as a nation of 170 million people, we have the will and resolve to surmount these challenges. He also said that Pakistan was created on the bases of two nation theory, we find no contradiction on practice of true religious values and yet be progressive. We will Inshallah prevail, Pakistani nation will Inshallah succeed, said General Kayani. Referring to the recent military operations in Swat and tribal areas, General Kayani said that operation in Swat against militants stands witness to competence and resolve of Armed Forces of Pakistan. He termed the operation in South Waziristan a clear testimony of determination and professionalism of the forces. General Kayani also commended the cooperation and support of PAF to Pakistan Army in the recent military operations. Army Chief, while addressing said that Armed Forces and the nation have joined hands to alleviate the suffering of the displaced people of Malakand and Waziristan. He called this is in line with our rich traditions of hospitality and sacrifice. This goodness of our society is our forte, we must preserve and protect these valued traditions he added. Congratulating the graduating cadets, General Kayani said that the nation has reposed its trust in you, now it is your responsibility to uphold this trust. Earlier on his arrival at the Academy, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Rao Qamar Suleman recived him. Latter, General Kayani distributed the awards among the distinct cadets. Coveted Sword of Honor for the overall best performance in flying was awarded to Pilot Officer Ikrash Munir Awan, whereas Coveted Sword of Honor for overall best in Engineering was awarded to Pilot Officer Hasan Tarar. The significant event of the ceremony was aerobatics performed by SHERDIL formation of K-8 Jet Trainer aircraft. In the end of the stunning event, cadets of PAF Academy Risalpur displayed Para Motor Gliders. Parents and relatives of the graduating cadets, senior civil and military officials were also present on the occasion. [Courtesy: Associated Press of Pakistan]