KARACHI: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the Pakistan Navy as a capable maritime force, saying it would continue to enhance the country’s naval capabilities to safeguard national defence and contribute to regional maritime stability.
The prime minister was addressing the commissioning parade of the 125th Midshipmen and 33rd Short Service Commission (SSC) Course at the Pakistan Naval Academy in Karachi, according to a statement issued by the Directorate General Public Relations (Navy).
The ceremony marked the passing out of 123 Midshipmen and 30 Short Service Commission cadets, including trainee officers from Bahrain, Iraq and Djibouti. Upon his arrival, the prime minister was received by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf.
Addressing the graduating officers, the prime minister congratulated the newly commissioned personnel and their families, and appreciated the Pakistan Naval Academy for imparting professional training to both Pakistani and foreign cadets.
He also commended the Pakistan Navy’s professionalism in safeguarding the country’s maritime interests during Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, stating that the force had successfully deterred a numerically superior adversary. He further praised the Navy’s role in Operation Muhafiz-ul-Bahr, saying it ensured the uninterrupted flow of critical energy supplies despite a challenging regional security environment.
During the ceremony, the prime minister distributed awards to outstanding cadets. Midshipman Umar Mukhtar received the coveted Sword of Honour for overall best performance, while Midshipman Hadi Abbas Khan was awarded the Academy’s Dirk.
Officer Cadet Hafiz Muhammad Ahmed Munawar won the Chief of Defence Forces Gold Medal, while Officer Cadet Ulveera Hamza of the Short Service Commission Course received the Commandant Gold Medal. The Proficiency Banner was awarded to Maintop Squadron.
The commissioning parade was attended by senior government officials, serving military officers, dignitaries and the families of the graduating officers.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026