The College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP) on Monday awarded Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif honorary fellowship of the college, in recognition of his exceptional services in the health care sector. General Raheel Sharif, who was chief guest at the 49th Convocation of CPSP held here at Convention Centre, was formally awarded the fellowship of the college.
The CPSP has awarded fellowship to any personality after a 26 years pause as prior to him, former President Muhammad Ayub Khan, Prince Karim Agha Khan and former premier Benazir Bhutto were decorated with this honour, according to sources. CPSP President Professor Zafarullah Chaudhry, in his welcome address, acknowledged the CoAS for his historical contributions and strenuous efforts for peace and stability of the country, his remarkable achievements against terrorism and for modernising the health care system in Pakistan Army, an Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) press release said.
The citation of CPSP reads: "General Raheel Sharif through his vision, resolve, sincerity and commitment against terrorism has become a leading figure of our times" The CoAS said by the grace of Allah Almighty, an environment had been created where fear and retribution from the terrorists and criminals had largely been reduced. Relative security, he said, needed to be transformed into an enduring peace and stability for the nation. A whole of the nation approach is important to bring our endeavours to a logical end, he added.
General Raheel paid rich tribute to the sacrifices of citizens and soldiers in achieving this state of stability and peace. While congratulating the graduating students, the CoAS said to steer the country towards success, "we need to invest in our future generations. To this end, every individual, especially the educated professionals, have an enormous responsibility. "It is my belief that today's Fellows will rise and shine as the future of Pakistan." General Raheel appreciated the College leadership for improving postgraduate medical education and health care services in the country.-PR