Federal Minister for Defence, Rao Sikandar Iqbal Thursday said Pakistan had no aggressive designs against any country and the defence of the country had been made invincible as only strong defence can guarantee peace and security in the region.
Speaking at a ceremony held in connection with installation of Gunship Naval Artifact by Pakistan Navy at by-pass interchange here, the minister said, "Pakistan believes in resolution of all outstanding international and regional issues through talks but we cannot remain oblivious to our defence."
The Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Afzal Tahir,Rear Admiral Muhammad Shafi, Rear Admiral Tanveer Faiz, District Nazim Syed Asad Ali Gillani, Tehsil Nazim Rao Jamil Akhtar and elite of the town were also present on the occasion.
The senior minister said all available resources are being utilised to equip armed forces with latest weapons to ensure that nobody dare cast evil eye on our motherland. About extremism and terrorism he said, "These are the biggest challenges facing the country and government is committed to tackle them effectively and root them out."
Regarding political situation in the country, the minister said, "People have rejected those indulging in politics of protests and resignations." He said those trying to create chaos in the country through negative political tactics are neither sincere to the masses, nor country or democracy.
He said Pakistan made unprecedented progress in all fields of life under the able leadership of President General Pervez Musharraf during the last seven years.
He said President Pervez Musharraf has already approved construction of bridge over Ravi at Syedwala to be completed at a cost of Rs 800 million. The construction of this bridge, he said, would reduce distance between Okara and Islamabad by 90 kms.