The 23rd of November 2009 is a very significant day in the history of our country and our defence sector in particular. Today, we celebrate the occasion of rollout of the first JF-17 aircraft co-produced in Pakistan. It is a moment of pride for the entire nation and a historic achievement by Pakistan Air Force.
Today, we do not merely celebrate the rolling out of an aircraft; it is in fact much more than that. We celebrate the triumph of our national spirit against all odds. The JF-17 Programme does indeed symbolise the blending of our national spirit with our will to surpass obstacles in our long journey towards progress and prosperity.
Today's achievement is not an insignificant feat by any standards. It displays the strength of conviction on part of our leadership to make Pakistan strong and infallible in its defence. It also shows the true character of an already proven, reliable and trustworthy relationship which Pakistan has with its long time friend, China. The Chinese assistance and help in the JF-17 Programme has been colossal in the realisation of this important milestone.
Chinese contribution and willingness to participate in the JF-17 Programme provided the programme with the much needed impetus at the start and continued to take the project to its fruitful culmination. Today, as we bask in the glory of our successes, we feel and owe a debt of gratitude to our Chinese friends.
JF-17 Programme ha come a long distance while going though various phases of conception, development and production. Lessons learnt from the past have been applied for refinement of aircraft manufacturing and production phase.
I am happy to know that through JF-17 project, the Aeronautical Complex at Kamra has achieved the capability to manufacture aircraft sub-assemblies and other major parts. I am also glad to learn that the aircraft avionics are planned to be co-produced at PAC Kamra that also envisages the aircraft airframe and complete Avionics Integration Capability. It is further heartening to know that a process as complex as co-production of a fighter aircraft has been truly mastered by the skilled Pakistani technicians working at PAC Kamra. Their efforts will indeed lay the foundations for a successful future aviation industry in the country.
I sincerely believe that with the blessings of Allah Almighty, the will of our people and continued support from our Chinese friends, we will Inshallah achieve all the milestones of this project of prime national importance. I congratulate PAF on this achievement and wish them success in future as well. May Allah Almighty grant success and glory to Pakistan armed forces in all their endeavours directed towards safeguarding our independence. Aameen.