By NNN-APP
Islamabad : Caretaker Prime Minister Mohammedmian Soomro termed strong defence an ultimate guarantee to peace, adding that a vigilant navy was vital for defending Pakistan’s diverse maritime boundaries.
Talking to Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Mohammad Afzal Tahir at PM Secretariat Tuesday, the Prime Minister said Pakistan’s defence policy was based on peaceful coexistence in conformity with the prevailing geo-strategic environment and national aspirations.
He said the government was fully cognizant of the country’s defence needs and would make all necessary resources available to modernize and upgrade its defence needs in view of fast-paced ongoing technological developments.
The Prime Minister said Pakistan believed in maintaining friendly relations with neighbouring countries, which could be achieved by maintaining minimum credible deterrence.
To maintain deterrence capability, the Prime Minister said the country depends on both strategic and conventional initiatives.
Referring to economic importance of sea routes, Soomro said Pakistan Navy had an important role to play in protecting sea-lanes and routes besides the country’s coastline.
He said security of trade routes was necessary for country’s business and trade. He said the government would continue to provide necessary funds for equipping and modernizing Pakistan Navy.
Admiral M. Afzal Tahir apprised the Prime Minister about ongoing modernization and upgradation of Navy.
He said Pakistan Navy was fully capable to defend country’s territorial waters and stood fully prepared to face the emerging challenges.