By APP
Islamabad : Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani Friday said Pakistan believes in maintaining a credible minimum deterrence to ensure peace and stability in the region.
Gilani was talking to Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, who called on him at PM Secretariat to felicitate him on assuming the office of the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister said Pakistan was a peaceful country and its defence policy was based on peaceful coexistence.
He said as a responsible nuclear state Pakistan believes in maintaining a credible minimum deterrence to ensure peace in the region.
The Prime Minister said the armed forces have an important responsibility to protect the security and territorial integrity of the country.
He appreciated the role of armed forces during national calamities.
The Chief of Army Staff said defence of the country had been made impregnable by adopting innovative training and induction of modern equipment.
In another meeting with Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Mohammad Afzal Tahir, Gilani said Pakistan’s defence policy is based on peaceful coexistence in conformity with the prevailing geo-strategic environment and national aspirations.
Referring to economic importance of sea routes, the Prime Minister said Pakistan Navy has an important role to play in protecting sea lanes and routes besides the coastline of the country.
He said security of trade routes was necessary for country’s economic security.
The Prime Minister said Pakistan is a peace-loving country but believes in maintaining a minimum credible deterrence to ensure peace and stability in the region.
Admiral M. Afzal Tahir apprised the Prime Minister that Pakistan Navy is fully capable to defend country’s territories and stands fully prepared to face emerging challenges.