COAS Address on the Occasion of Azadi Parade 2012 at PMA Kakul

14th August 2012
COAS SPEECH at AZADI PARADE 

In the name of Allah, the most beneficent, the most merciful

Distinguished Guests, 
Ladies and Gentlemen!

1. Please accept my heartfelt felicitations on the 65th anniversary of the independence day of Pakistan. The annual ‘Azadi Parade’ at Pakistan Military Academy has become an important event of our independence day celebration. Personally, I am honoured to witness today's parade. This special ceremony reminds us of 14th August 1947, the most important day of our history. It is also an occasion to pay tribute to those who rendered unparalleled sacrifices for winning, and later preserving, our freedom.

2. The 14th day of August will always remind us how Muslims of the Indian subcontinent, under the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam, took on tremendous odds to win their right to a separate national and religious identity. Perhaps, no other nation in modern history has paid a higher price for its independence.

3. We should always remember that Pakistan was not created only as a geographical entity. Rather, Pakistan was to become an ideal Islamic welfare state that would showcase how Islam’s golden principles can form the basis for a modern and tolerant society. A society wherein not only Muslims, but the minorities would also be guaranteed security of life, property and religious freedom.  It is this later part, which is the unfinished agenda of 1947. We will only be able to truly honour the sacrifices of our elders when our society becomes a true reflection of the very spirit of Islam.

4. Today, we are living through the decisive moments of our history. Disillusionment, desperation, religious bigotry, political disharmony and discord seem to permeate our lives. Naturally, the forces hostile to our motherland are benefitting from internal weaknesses and resulting uncertainty in the country. Blaming such anti-Pakistan elements aside, our efforts must be directed towards stabilizing the internal front.

5. Today, extremism and terrorism present a grave challenge. We can claim that this menace is not of our making. This approach, however, will not solve the problem. It is important for us to clearly understand, what is extremism and terrorism. Misconceptions about these two terminologies, can prove catastrophically divisive for the nation.

6. We are faithful Muslims, without any reservations. It is an important article of our faith that only Allah can, and will decide who is a lesser or better Muslim. We must also remember, without doubt, that Pakistan was created in the name of Islam. No one can separate Islam from Pakistan.

7.  Any person who believes his opinion to be the final verdict, is an extremist. The perfect or universal intellect, is only attributable to Allah. Man, a temporal being, is born with an imperfect intellect, beset with limitations. A human claim to be the final word in judging right from wrong, is tantamount to a claim to divine attributes, or shirk.

8. As a human being, It would be wrong for me to give the verdict that today's parade was the best in the world. I have not witnessed all the parades in the world. More importantly, can my criterion for this judgment be considered final? if I cannot give the final verdict in such a small issue, then how is it possible to do so in the intricate issues dealing with religion and life. It becomes blatant extremism when one not only insists upon finality of personal opinion, but tries imposing it on others. More so, if one tries to enforce his opinion through use of gun, it becomes terrorism. That is why Islam does not allow anyone to claim to be a know all, and flirt with divinity.

9. If this is the correct definition of extremism and terrorism, then the war against it is our own war, and a just war too. Any misgivings in this regards can divide us internally, leading to a civil war situation. It is therefore, vital that our minds must be clear of cobwebs on this crucial issue.

10. The war against extremism and terrorism is not only the Army's war, but that of the whole nation. We as a nation must stand united against this threat. Army's success is dependent on the will and support of the people. So far, Army and the people have rendered great sacrifices in this cause, for which I pay homage to the Shaheeds, Ghazis and their families. However, these sacrifices will be meaningful, if the civil administration is able to administer the affected areas without the Army's assistance. This may take some time, but it must remain our ultimate objective. It is also crucial that appropriate laws are passed to deal with terrorism. Since 2001, many countries in the world have formulated special anti terrorism laws. Unfortunately, our progress towards such legislation, remained very slow.

11. It is also vital to improve the condition of people living in affected areas. Pakistan Army, in collaboration with the Government, has already completed social and welfare projects worth 25 Billion rupees and is set to complete a similar quantum of work in the next two years.

12. We are fully aware that it is the most difficult task for any Army to fight its own people. This is always done as a last resort. Our ultimate aim is to bring peace to these areas so that the people can live a normal life. But for that to happen, it is critical that  people abide by the constitution and law of the land. No state can afford a parallel system of governance and militias. Peace can only be sought in accordance with the principles of Islam, within the national constitution. Peace must be given a chance. No sane person can deny this. Therefore, any pragmatic solution which is within the bounds of constitution and owned by the society at large is possible.

13. You are well aware of the major concerns of common man in Pakistan regarding fragile economic situation, corruption and near breakdown of civic services. These concerns are sapping our will to see beyond the difficulties of daily life. However, the challenge that threatens us the most is preservation of National integrity and unity. We will succeed only when we are ready,  united and demonstrate the will to face the challenge.

14. We are proud of our religion and our history. We know that Islam preaches humanity, not terrorism, and that it is the moral authority of Islam, and its truth, that made it a universal religion. We believe in the philosophy and struggle that made Pakistan possible. We must not be doubtful, or apologetic about it. Pakistan is a gift of our forefathers. Our generation has the obligation to leave a strong and prosperous Pakistan for posterity. We will discharge this duty for our children, regardless of the cost. It is necessary for us to understand our responsibilities and  have faith that we can do it. I have no doubt that the nation has potential to deliver. We have to resolve our own issues. This is how proud nations do it. No outsider can, or will do it for us. If we want to see Pakistan as a respectable member of the comity of nations, there is only one way to do it and that is to have faith in ourselves, and the resolve that we can.

15. All of us have a share of the blame of our past, some more than others. But no nation has progressed by lamenting the past. We must look ahead if we are to progress. We must learn from the past, build our present and keep an eye on the future. It is time that we stand as one, and prove to the world that we are a vibrant and strong nation with a high sense of ethics and morality. This alone, is worthy of honour. The path is difficult and demands sacrifice, yet it remains the only true path available.

16. Let us, on this the 65th day of our Independence, pledge that we will understand and discharge our responsibilities and also, to pledge that we will sacrifice everything, for the security and prosperity of our beloved homeland. Ladies and gentlemen, the real question is not what Pakistan can do for us, but what can we do for Pakistan. Whatever we are, is because of Pakistan. Without it, we will be nothing.

Let us, on this historic and memorable day, promise that we the people of Pakistan and all national institutions will work to make Pakistan an ideal Islamic welfare state. Insha Allah.

I will end my speech with the prayer that may Allah forever remain the benefactor and protector of Pakistan.

Pakistan Zindabad 

Passing out Parade of 125th PMA Long Course

Kakul - April 21, 2012: Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Mohammad Asif Sandila was the Chief Guest on Passing Out Parade ceremony of 125th PMA Long Course and Integrated Course-44 at PMA Kakul, today.

 “It is indeed a matter of immense pleasure and great privilege for me to review your passing out parade. I congratulate you on this marvelous accomplishment and convey my heartiest felicitations to your parents, families and the faculty, who contributed to your great achievement through their sincere commitment and guidance. I extend my appreciation to those who have won distinction and have been awarded for their commendable performance. I specially congratulate the cadets from Palestine and Sudan on successfully completing their training at this premier institution”, he said, while addressing the gathering, where a large number of civil and military officials were present. 

 “Pakistan Military Academy, which is rightfully considered a cherished institution, brings remarkable changes in its cadets transforming them into responsible leaders. It imbibes esteemed values among its cadets. The standards set here must serve you as the yardstick in your future professional pursuits”. 

 He added that “Your immaculate turnout and grandiose parade marked by precise drill movements speak volumes of the high standards of your training. Your proud bearing is reflective of the uncompromising standards pursued at this great institution. I would like to commend the efforts of your faculty, instructors and all those who have made this day memorable for you. I hope and pray that this quest for excellence will become a permanent feature of your personality throughout your life. 

 Becoming a member of corps of officers in Pakistan Army is no doubt a matter of great pride. But at the same time, this is just the beginning of a long, eventful and challenging voyage filled with every kind of ordeals. By now you have been equipped with the basic training in professional field and a solid foundation is laid, upon which you can build your career and face the challenges of a demanding profession. Be a symbol of valour and steadfastness for your men and lead them by setting your personal example. That is why you must demonstrate strength of character, comradeship, courage and competence in concrete way”. 

 Furthermore he said that “Today the nature and dimensions of threat to our national security has broadened manifolds. We are not just faced with a standing foreign adversary but re also confronted with an amorphous and violent enemy, which is bent upon foisting its own ideology of hate and bigotry upon us. We are thus faced with unprecedented challenges to our national security on both domestic and foreign fronts for which the Armed Forces are expected to maintain unflinching vigil at all times and at all costs. On the other hand, the art and gadgetry of warfare are prone to swift changes and progress in technology. The concepts and doctrines of warfare do also change radically in accordance with the progress in hardware. It is thus imperative that you always keep yourselves updated on all developments occurring in the world; this will enhance your professional competence and confidence. You have to strive consistently to remain alert to these changes and absorb them in your training programmes for the assimilation of your under command. The perpetual pursuance in this regard is bound to give you confidence and self-assurance which are considered hallmarks of any effective leader. So you are required to follow warily the latest developments in technologies and trends in the military field and be able to assess their implications in both national and international perspectives. This is a tough proposition for which I would exhort upon you to strictly focus yourself on professional affairs and do not squander your energies and time on nonprofessional matters. Resist any temptation that may distract you from your main course and prepare yourself as a battle ready warrior”. 

 He further added that “The nation pins very high expectations on you. I do hope that you will add new dimensions to the traditional concepts of command and leadership. You have become a member of an organization whose discipline and quality of work are worth emulating. I advise you to uphold those glorious traditions through the strength of your personal character, integrity and honour. I am sure you will always place service before self and at no cost let your personnel interest interfere with public duty. 

 At the end of the ceremony The Sword of Honour for the overall best cadet was awarded to Battalion Senior Under Officer Hassaan Ahmed Malik, The president Gold Medal for the overall second best cadet was awarded to Academy Senior Under Officer Mohsin Mustafa, The Chief of Army Staff’s Overseas Gold Medal for best Allied Cadet was awarded to Academy Under Officer Ahmed Mohammad Nimir Babo Nimir and The Commandant’s Cane for the best integrated Course cadet was awarded to Course Under Officer Abdul Rahim.

Cadets of PMA Kakul mount guard at Quaid's Mazar - 2011

December 25th, 2011: A smartly turned out contingent of gentlemen Cadets from the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA), Kakul, mounted ceremonial guard at the mausoleum of Quaid-e-Azam on Sunday as a part of celebration to mark the Father of the nation's 135th birth anniversary.

Major General Mazhar Jamil, Commandant Pakistan Military Academy, reviewed the parade, laid wreath, presented the salute and offered fateha.

The first passing out parade of PMA was held on 25th December, 1948. It was reviewed by the then Governor General of Pakistan, Khawaja Nazimuddin, who presented the Quaid-e-Azam Banner to the champion company.

The Pakistan Military Academy, Kakul, has the singular honour of being the only military institution designated as 'Quaid-e-Azam's Own' by the Father of the Nation himself. He was the first and only Colonel-in-Chief of the Academy.

The guard mounting ceremony by PMA cadets is a regular annual feature to pay homage to the Father of the Nation. Later, the representatives of three services laid floral wreath and offered fateha at Quaid's tomb.

Passing out Parade of 124th PMA Long Course

October 22nd, 2011: An impressive Passing out parade of 124th PMA Long Course, 23rd Technical Graduate Course, 43rd Integrated Course 9th Lady Cadet Course and 19th Short Service Commission was held at Pakistan Military Academy, Kakul. Chief of Air Staff (CAS) Air Chief Marshal Rao Qamar Suleman was the chief guest on the occasion.

Chief of Air Staff, congratulated all the graduating cadets on successful completion of their basic military training. Addressing to the Gentlemen Cadets, he said that "You have to strive consistently to grow and mature in knowledge of modern technology and the art of warfare, as you advance in your professional life. Today, warfare is closely linked with technology, leading to revolutionary changes in concepts and doctrines. Your professional competence will help you not only in mastering the modern concepts, but it will also give you the confidence and conviction, which you essentially require to become effective military leaders."

Air Chief Marshal Rao Qamar Suleman, reiterated that "We are treading an undulating path full of complexities that demands from ‘leaders’ like you to stand up firmly with strength of character and professional excellence". He further added that "Today the nation faces unprecedented external as well as internal threats. The Armed Forces of Pakistan are facing these challenges boldly and have offered countless sacrifices. We fully understand our responsibilities and have the resolve to defend our way of life, principles and freedom."

Chief of Air Staff (CAS) said that "we vow to contribute to peace and prosperity in the world, we are fully prepared and capable of guarding our national interest and sovereignty with full force and resolve. You must live up to the trust and confidence the nation has reposed in you. Whatever the circumstances and challenges be, always keep the national standard high. Let us revive our promise to make Pakistan a strong country, worthy of its name and the aspirations of its people."

Earlier, CAS Air Chief Marshal Rao Qamar Suleman reviewed the smartly turned out parade and awarded medals. The coveted Sword of Honour was awarded to Sword of Honour to Company Senior Under Officer Raffay Tassawar from 124th PMA Long Course, The President’s Gold Medal to Battalion Senior Under Officer Omer Nisar from 124th PMA Long Course, the Chief of Army Staff Overseas Gold Medal (Allied Cadet) to Academy Under Officer Abdul Latif Ahmed Al Dosari of 124th PMA Long Course, the Chief of Army Staff Cane to Course Under Officer Muhammad Usama Khalid of 23rd Technical Graduate Course, the Commandant’s Cane for the best cadet of Integrated course 43rd was awarded to Course Under Officer Aqib Naeem. The Commandant Cane for the best cadet of Lady Cadets’ Course 9th was awarded to Course Under Officer Sana Ayaz Qazi. The Commadant’s Cane of 19th Short Service Commission was awarded to Course Under Officer Zulfiqar Ali Haideri.

Major General Mazhar Jamil, Commandant Pakistan Military Academy was also present on the saluting dais. A large number of senior serving and retired armed forces officers, parents of cadets, foreign diplomats and relatives of graduating cadets witnessed the spectacular parade.

Convocation ceremony of 124th PMA Long Course

October 15th, 2011: Convocation ceremony of 124th PMA Long Course was held at Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul on Saturday. Lieutenant General Shafqaat Ahmed, Corps Commander Multan was the chief guest on the occasion.

Lieutenant General Shafqaat Ahmed congratulated the cadets of 124th PMA long courses on achieving this important landmark in their life and appreciated the hard work put in by the faculty staff of the Academy in preparing and training future leaders of the Pakistan Armed Forces. He said that Education refines your character and moulds your moral fiber by providing a beacon to discern right from wrong, discriminate between vague and clear, and make the right decision, especially in crisis. It is for this reason that Army lays great emphasis upon its officers to master a greater level of intellectual achievement. It is your academic excellence, better professional knowledge and above all the strength of character, which will be the worthiest in your arsenal and will help you win trust as a leader. I am sure the intellectual upbringing you got here is a foundation on which you can build a successful military career.

Later, Lieutenant General Shafqaat Ahmed gave away degrees and medals to the graduating cadets. In Academic subjects, Company Senior Under Officer Raffay Tassawar received Science Medal and Tactics Medal , Company Senior Under Officer Irfan Ahmed Khan received Humanities Medal while Academic Gold Medal (Allied Cadets) was awarded to Allied Under Officer Latif Ahmed Dosari, whereas in Military subjects, COAS and Physical Efficiency Medals were awarded to Academy Senior Under Officer Usman Ali Tipu and Shooting Medal was received by Battalion Senior Under Officer Nauman Ilyas.

In Ladies Integrated Course-9, Lady Cadet Tamsila Shaheen attained Physical Efficiency Medal and Sergeant Sana Anwar Qazi was given Shooting Medal.

Ubaida Company was given Professional Efficiency Trophy for getting first position in training and the company also received Commandant’s Trophy.

The ceremony was attended by a large number of serving and retired Armed Forces Officers, parents and relatives of the cadets.

Passing out Parade of 123rd PMA Long Course

An impressive Passing out parade of 123rd PMA Long Course, Integrated Course 42nd and Lady Cadets Course 8th was held at Pakistan Military Academy, Kakul. Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani was the chief guest on the occasion.

Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani congratulated all the graduating cadets on successful completion of their basic military training. He during his address said that Pakistan Army is fully aware of internal and external threats to the country and will come upto the expectations of the nation. In the ongoing war against terrorism, our officers and soldiers have made great sacrifices and have achieved tremendous success.

COAS said that people of the country value their freedom and independence more than anything else and consider no sacrifice too great to preserve it. He called upon people to remain optimistic and keep the dream of strong and prosperous Pakistan alive. I have no doubt that all of us together can achieve it.

COAS further said that people have the capacity and will to do it, whatever the difficulties and challenges. Let us revive our promise to make Pakistan a strong country, worthy of its name and the aspiration of its people.

The Chief of Army Staff reiterated that this profession demands strong resolve and conviction. You can reach the zenith of glory by following the high standards of professionalism and valor set by your illustrious predecessors.

Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff reviewed the smartly turned out parade and awarded medals. The coveted Sword of Honour was awarded to Academy Senior Under Officer Abdul Malik from 123rd PMA Long Course, The President’s Gold Medal to Battalion Senior Under Officer Qazi Fasih Ud Din from 123rd PMA Long Course, the Chief of Army Staff Overseas Gold Medal to Allied Under Officer Tukakov Betyr Naryzbayewish from Kazakistan, the Commandant’s Cane for the best cadet of Integrated course 42nd was awarded to Course Under Rizwan Abdul Malik. The Commandant Cane for the best cadet of Lady Cadets’ Course 8th was awarded to Course Under Officer Ayesha Aslam.

Major General Mazhar Jamil, Commandant Pakistan Military Academy was also present on the saluting dais. A large number of senior serving and retired armed forces officers, parents of cadets, foreign diplomats and relatives of graduating cadets witnessed the spectacular parade.

Chief of Army Staff, General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani awarding coveted Sword of Honour to Academy Senior Under Officer Abdul Malik from 123rd PMA Long Course during Passing Out Parade held at Pakistan Military Academy Kakul, Abbottabad on Saturday. (23-4-2011)

Convocation ceremony of 123rd PMA Long Course

Convocation ceremony of 123rd PMA Long Course was held at Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Abbottabad today. Lieutenant General Khalid Nawaz Khan, Corps Commander Rawalpindi was the chief guest on the occasion.

Lieutenant General Khalid Nawaz Khan congratulated the cadets of 123rd PMA long courses on achieving the memorable day of their life and appreciated the hard work put in by the faculty staff of the Academy in preparing and training future leaders of the Pakistan Armed Forces. He further said the award of this degree in the military career will surely pave the way for many more successes in future. He further sais that “The successful completion of the degree program confirms your potential and resolve to become able leaders of men, and ardent supporters of the motherland and the Army”.

Major Major General Mazhar Jamil, Commandant Pakistan Military Academy said that Pakistan Military Academy has the mandate to transform the raw talent of youth, given in its charge, into military leaders who are dedicated professionals and enlightened human beings. Therefore, at Pakistan Military Academy, personality development and intellectual grooming of the cadets assume primary importance.

Later, Lieutenant General Khalid Nawaz Khan gave away degrees and medals to the graduating cadets. Academy Senior Under Officer Muhammad Abdul Malik was given COAS Medal, Battalion Senior Under Officer Muhammad Shakeel received Tactics Medal in military subjects whereas Shooting Medal went to Gentleman Cadet Muhammad Rizwan Arif and Lady Cadet Majida Muhammad. Physical Efficiency Medal was received by CSS Abdul Samad and Lady Cadet Rabia Hannan.

The ceremony was attended by a large number of serving and retired Armed Forces Officers, parents and relatives of the cadets.