Admiral Noman Bashir, Chief of the Naval Staff, has said that stern action will be taken against those found involved in the Agosta Submarines scandal. While talking to media persons after the 7th Convocation of the Bahria University on Monday, the Naval Chief said that "the case is sub judice" in French court where investigation is underway, and whosoever is found guilty after thorough probe locally, would be taken to task.
The Admiral said that after completion of French investigation in the case local authorities would hold investigation and would take action if anybody is found guilty in the scandal. It is a tradition that baseless allegations are levelled against people. "However, if anybody is found guilty, with real evidence, he can not escape stern action by the authorities," Adm Noman said.
He said that Pakistan has strong air defence system and has the capability to deal with any air hostility with full force. The Naval Chief said that Pakistan wants peace and stability in the region. However, it has the ability to fully protect its borders with strong air defence system.
When asked about the country's capability against drone attacks, the Admiral said that Pakistan has the capacity to protect itself and subvert any type of attack. "Afghanistan war has already affected Pakistan and further adventurism in the region would certainly have negative impact on Pakistan", Adm Noman said. "We do not want instability in the region, as it will further affect Pakistan", he said, adding that Iran "is our neighbouring country and we have to live in peace with our neighbours".
"There should be no doubt that Iran is our friend and neighbour. Therefore, we want peaceful relation with them", he added. The Admiral said that Pakistan is not in favour of America-Iran war as it would create instability in the region which would certainly further have adverse effects on Pakistan.
Earlier, addressing to the Convocation, Admiral Noman said that at present less than 5 percent of the country's population has access to higher education. The rest of the youth, mostly in age group 17 to 25 need to be trained and educated to contribute positively in the overall development of the nation. On this occasion, degrees were conferred on 553 graduating students in various disciplines, including Business Management, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Telecommunication and Networking and Environmental Sciences.
Fourteen gold medals and twelve silver medals were awarded to the outstanding students on recognition of their remarkable achievement in the respective academic programs. He urged the teaching faculty to play significant role in preparing young generation to cope up with the daunting challenges of the time ahead.
Addressing the gathering, Vice Admiral (r) Muhammad Haroon, Rector, Bahria University, said that a Quality Assurance Directorate has been established to enhance quality and standards at each level of governance. He said that construction of gymnasium at Islamabad campus at a cost of Rs 70 million is near completion. It will provide ample indoor sports facilities to students, he added.
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