The Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Pervez Kayani on Saturday said that the Pakistan armed forces seek peace within the region, following up on the path of peace followed by country regardless of internal and external challenges.
Speaking at the passing out parade of Sri Lankan cadets at the Sri Lankan Military Academy, Kayani stressed that they desired regional stability based on a balance of power that promotes respect for each other’s sovereignty and discourages any quest for hegemony or dominance.
“Desire for peace is our greatest strength, which places us at a high moral ground and affords us the poise and confidence to exercise restraint, even once incited or provoked.”
Strong friendship
Pakistan military and the Sri Lankan armed forces share a close bond after the former helped the latter in fighting the LTTE militants for nearly three decades.
“Sri Lankan Army has proved its mettle under the most trying circumstances and has emerged victorious not only in the context of purging the menace of militancy and violence but also in pursuit of post conflict peace and stability.”
The army chief added that as Sri Lanka first fought and then sought to establish peace and rebuild, Pakistan stood by them.
“Pakistan has proved to be a true friend of Sri Lanka in your hour of need. I believe this provides a very strong foundation for a sincere friendship and genuine goodwill that exists between our two nations and armed forces.”
