PM hails Pakistan Navy’s role, says US-Iran agreement a matter of pride for Pakistan

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday praised the Pakistan Navy’s contribution to the country’s security, saying its role in Marka-e-Haq had been outstanding, while describing the recently concluded US-Iran agreement as “a matter of pride” for Pakistan.

Addressing the passing-out parade of the 125th Midshipmen Course and the 33rd Short Service Commission Course at the Pakistan Naval Academy, PNS Rahbar, the prime minister congratulated the graduating cadets and their families on the milestone.

“I congratulate the graduating cadets and their parents,” he said, adding that it was heartening to see cadets from friendly countries participating in the ceremony.

The graduating batch included cadets from Bahrain, Iraq and Djibouti, reflecting Pakistan’s defence cooperation with friendly nations.

PM Sharif said Pakistan was recognised globally as a standard-bearer of peace and reiterated his government’s commitment to further strengthening the Pakistan Navy.

“The US-Iran agreement is a matter of pride for Pakistan,” he said, adding that ties between Islamabad and Tehran would become stronger following the recent visit of the Iranian president.

The prime minister also alleged that foreign elements were involved in sponsoring terrorism in Pakistan, without naming any country.

Earlier, PM Shehbaz arrived in Karachi on a day-long visit to attend the ceremony as chief guest.

During the event, he distributed awards to outstanding cadets and later met the graduating officers and their parents.

Officer Cadet Alveera Hamza received the Commandant Gold Medal, while Officer Cadet Hafiz Muhammad Ahmed Munawar was awarded the Chief of Defence Forces Gold Medal. The Academy Dirk Midshipman award went to Hadi Abbas Khan, while Midshipman Umar Mukhtar received the Sword of Honour for his overall outstanding performance.

A total of 123 midshipmen and 30 Short Service Commission cadets graduated during the ceremony.

Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Sindh Governor Nihal Hashmi and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah also attended the event.