‘We cannot be oblivious to threats to our sovereignty, national security’: Naval Chief

ISLAMABAD: Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Muhammad Zakaullah said on Friday, "As hegemonic and domineering mindset solidifies in our neighborhood, we cannot be oblivious to threats to our sovereignty and national security."

Addressing at the Convocation ceremony of 44th Pakistan Navy Staff Course held at Pakistan Navy War College, Lahore, he emphasized the significance of maritime domain, rapidly changing regional and international dynamics have put a heavy responsibility on us to remain relevant and effective both at political and military levels.

He envisioned Pakistan Navy to be "a modern potent Navy, manned by motivated professionals, that contributes effectively to deterrence and national security across the full conflict spectrum, capable of radiating influence region-wide with a global outlook".

He highlighted that my principal focus is on developing a quality human resource and enhancing the combat potential, by acquiring new potent platforms, improving maintenance and logistics capacity in a manner that we remain ever ready for undertaking any task assigned by the Government.

While advising the graduating officers, Admiral Zakaullah said that always bear in mind that learning is a continuous process, and everyday there will be a new thing for you to learn about your demanding profession.

Therefore, strive hard to keep pace with the rapid technological advancements in the domain of modern naval warfare, he added.

"I expect you, not only to live up to the glorious traditions of your predecessors, but also to raise the bar further by your own distinguished accomplishments.

In the execution of your job, there should be nothing higher or greater than the dictates of your conscience. No doubt, your path would be full of challenges and trials, but let it not be forgotten that it is the quality of fighting men that is the real force multiplier.

And in this journey of professionalism, honesty, integrity and passion, may Allah be your protector and guide," he added.

Admiral Zakaullah conferred Master Degrees in War Studies (Maritime) to 79 graduates from Pakistan Navy, Pak Army, Pakistan Air Force and 21 officers from Allied countries including Bahrain, Bangladesh, China, Egypt, Fiji, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, Nigeria, Oman, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Turkey and Yemen.

Earlier in his welcome address, Commandant PN War College, Rear Admiral Abdul Aleem summarized the professional and academic activities in which the graduating officers were skilled over a period of 41 weeks.

He said that the presence of sizeable number of graduating allied officers is indeed encouraging and signifies the fraternal bonds between these countries and Pakistan and above all between our Navies.

The ceremony was attended by a large number of distinguished civilian guests and Senior Officers of the Armed Forces of Pakistan.