Any misadventure by India to get befitting response: PM

KAKUL: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to peace, warned that any misadventure by India would be met with a swift and befitting response.

Addressing the grand passing-out parade  held at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul on Saturday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the passing-out cadets and said attending the parade was an honour.

 “Our armed forces are a symbol of unity, discipline, and national pride,” he stated.

The parade was attended by PM Shehbaz Sharif as the chief guest while Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir graced the event as the guest of honour.

Upon his arrival, the Army Chief was presented with a salute. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reviewed the parade and congratulated the graduating cadets.

Federal Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and Information Minister Atta Tarar also attended the ceremony, along with foreign diplomats and senior civil and military officials.

 Addressing the cadets, PM highlighted the professionalism of the Pakistan Armed Forces, noting their global reputation. He said the government is making serious efforts for economic stability and is focusing on increasing investment and sustainable growth.

On foreign policy, the prime minister said Pakistan seeks peaceful and cooperative relations with Afghanistan. Referring to Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar’s recent visit to Kabul, he said a clear message was delivered that Pakistan desires brotherly and peaceful ties.

Regarding the Kashmir dispute, PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s stance, stating, “Kashmir is a globally recognised disputed territory and must be resolved as per UN resolutions.” He reiterated Pakistan’s support for Kashmiris’ right to self-determination, calling Kashmir the “jugular vein” of Pakistan.

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He warned against any unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, asserting, “Pakistan will respond strongly to any attempts to block its water.” He stressed that water is Pakistan’s lifeline and any miscalculation would be met with firm resistance.

On regional security, PM Shehbaz said Pakistan condemns terrorism in all forms and has sacrificed more than any other country in the war against terror. “After the Pahalgam incident, baseless allegations were made against Pakistan,” he added.

He concluded with a strong message: “Our armed forces are fully prepared to defend the country. Peace is our preference, but it should not be mistaken for weakness. Any misadventure will be responded to with full force, just as in 2019.”

Cadets graduating from PMA took an oath of allegiance during the ceremony. Awards were distributed among cadets for outstanding performance. Under Officer Muhammad Hanan Malik received the prestigious Sword of Honour, while the Presidential Gold Medal went to Under Officer Zain-ul-Abideen.

The Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee’s Overseas Gold Medal was awarded to a cadet from Nepal. Lady Cadet Laiba Rehman was also honoured for her performance. Under Officer Muhammad Talha Ayaz received the Commandant’s Cane.