Passing out parade of 128 PMA Long Course

General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, chief of army staff reviewing passing out parade at PMA kakul on saturday 12 October 2013

KAKUL (Abbottabad), Oct 12: Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani said on Saturday that the army fully supported the dialogue process initiated by the national leadership to tackle the menace of terrorism. Addressing the passing out parade of 128th Long Course here at the Pakistan Military Academy, he said that terrorism was a big challenge, and the national leadership and the nation had to decide ways and means of the dialogue process, which were becoming more clear with the process moving ahead. The army chief said that it was imperative that the dialogue process should forge unity among the nation instead of creating any division and it must be within the constitutional parameters. He said that the impression that the course of dialogue had been adopted after the failure of military operations, was totally wrong. The Pakistan Army has given matchless sacrifices in the war against terrorism and achieved major successes against the menace, he added. General Kayani said that the use of power would be the last resort. “If needed, the army is fully prepared for its effective use. There is no confusion among the army to understand and play its role in both the situations.” Pakistan, he said, was passing through a critical and difficult phase and the military leadership must play its role for strengthening of the democratic system. The entire nation has to play its role for the resolution of the country’s problems, he added. Terming terrorism a big challenge for the nation, he said it was not only contrary to the country’s ideology but also the teachings of Islam. Gen Kayani said that the Pakistan Army had played its role against terrorism in a very difficult situation. “We should rememberthose days when armed groups were just 100 kilometers away from Islamabad. When men and women were being slaughtered in the Bazaars and the Green Chowk of Mingora was called as a “Khooni Chowk”. Roads were deserted while business, houses, economy went into the hands of criminals.” In these situations, the efforts and sacrifices rendered by the Pakistan Army have no parallel in the present war history, he added. Quoting the example of Swat to understand the reality, he said that more than two million people were made homeless but the army took them back to their houses. “We purged Swat of the militants through a swift and effective military operation and two million people returned to their homes in four months. Today there is complete peace in Swat and the people of Swat are witness to this reality,” he added.The army chief said that due to lack of coordination among institutions, the state system could not be evolved properly. Due to economic imbalance, the rich became richer and the poor poorer while weak governance system and intolerance agravated the situation further, he added. “We should accept that neither any particular person nor any segment of the society has a remedy for the problems. We should also accept that these problems cannot be resolved in a few months or years.” He said that the entire nation would have to play its due role while the national leadership would have to show it the right direction. “We will have to stick to this path.” This can only be made possible if there is harmony among different state organs, he said and added that the country had already suffered and could not suffer more. Gen Kayani stressed the need of further improving civil and military relations. He said it was imperative for the military leadership to continue working for strengthening the democratic system in the country. For the purpose, more confidence among the state institutions was needed. “This process has started and it should continue in future,” he added. He pointed out that the confidence and relations among state institutions anywhere in the world were not exemplary. He said that some mistakes were committed during the process of governing system’s evolution elsewhere in the world and same was the case in Pakistan also. But the society has a key role to correct these mistakes through constructive criticism, he added. “If there is an insult in the criticism, the institutions instead of taking corrective measures, involve in fighting and become weak or stop performing. Therefore, there should be a positive criticism,” he said. Pakistan, he said, would develop when its institutions would become strong. He was happy that the society not only understood that but had also made good progress during the last few years in that regard. He said learning lessons from past mistakes was a must for bright future. “But totally ignoring successes makes the people despair. We should not forget that we had struggled for the country’s development against all odds and mistakes,” he added. General Kayani said the efforts culminated in the present democratic system, which was the central point of the Constitution made with a national consensus. He said all the political parties had accepted the results of 2008 general election. For the first time in the country’s history, a democratic government completed its term and transferred the power to the new elected one. He said after 1970 election, the people in large numbers voted in the 2013 general election. “Now there are elected governments at the Center and in the provinces. We are now standing with democratic nations.” He said the armed forces also fulfilled their constitutional obligations.It was difficult to maintain law and order during the elections. But the Pakistan Army along with other institutions was able to create a conducive atmosphere for polls. During the last two elections, a foundation for a democratic Pakistan has been laid and now the present and coming generations should build a building over it, he added. He said,”Now we have left behind a bitter past when the nation had to undergo various experiences. Today the nation’s fate and destiny is in the hands of its own leadership. This success is a proper reply to those, who are spreading rumours about the country’s future.” He said that Pakistan’s ideology was based on democracy. The elements, who were busy in working against the deology, should understand that the country’s future was linked with democracy. On the basis of that ideology, Pakistan’s creation was a history. It came into being in the name of Islam, which reflected the best democratic thoughts, he added. He said that the Founder of Pakistan while addressing the Constituent Assembly, had set the direction for the countrymen. “All the people enjoy equal rights in an Islamic welfare state. Any negative approach, which hampers basic democratic rights, has no place in our national life. People’s welfare, tolerance, and acceptance of the Constitution can make the democratic system a complete success,” he added. Citing examples of success in the war against terrorism, the army chief said that besides Swat, South Waziristan, Aurakzai, Muhmand, Bajaur, Dir and recently Tirah valley were freed from the terrorists and extremists. “We are proud of restoring the writ of state over 37,000 square kilometer area. The successes were achieved through the blood of thousands of Shuhada and Ghazis and creating confusion in this regard will be a disrespect to them. It is not difficult to gauge that what will have been happening today without these successes,” he added. “Had we not been able to take benefit of these successes fully, then we should not at least repeat these mistakes in future,” he added. He said that there was no price for sacrificing a life and no one was demanding the same. “But we are much ahead of those respectable societies, which give respect to those, who lay down their lives for the country.” That was why, Pakistani officers and soldiers did not undergo any stress despite passing through a very difficult situation. They were performing the sacred duty for the country’s defence without any pressure, he added. He said that in the developed countries, the soldiers after returning from the battlefield, suffered from mental stress and had a tendency of committing suicide. There was not even a single example cited in case of Pakistan Army. Pakistan, he said, was passing through a difficult and critical phase. “Nations have to undergo such situations, but those, who accept them as a challenge, become stronger ones.” He admitted that mistakes had been committed. But at the same time certainly some good things had also been done and because of which Pakistan was a sovereign and strong country today, he added. General Kayani said that with one university and a few colleges in 1947, the literacy rate in the country was around 12 per cent. Likewise in the industrial field, there were 34 factories while the per capita income was less than 100 dollars at that time. He said that there were no state organizations and the Pakistan Army consisted of mere few thousand personnel. Tanks could have been counted at fingers. The Air Force and the Navy were also facing similar situation. He said Pakistan made the beginning with a weak financial, industrial and educational system and due to that reason, several critics had thought maintaining independence would be difficult for the new country. But hats off to the nation, who faced every difficulty and made the country a success story, he added. He said after passage of 66 years, today Pakistan was the sixth most populated country and the fourth one having the most agriculture and livestock production. There are now factories and industries set up throughout the country, he added. “Today we have 186 universities and thousands of colleges while our per capita income is over 1300 dollars. We are the seventh largest army and the only nuclear power in the Muslim world,” he added. “We would have been in a better position, had we not committed mistakes. We have forgotten the golden principles of the Father of Nation Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah i,e., Unity, Faith and Discipline. We did not prefer the welfare of the masses. As a result, the dream of Pakistan being a welfare state has not been fully materialized.”Gen Kayani chief said that the army had achieved all its successes in its limited sources. Despite a jugglery of the figures, the allocations for armed forces were 18 per cent of the national budget “We understand that the real national security lies in prosperous and confident people. Pakistan will only be safe against foreign aggression when the entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with army men.” It will only be possible when the country’s economy is strong as internally weak nations cannot meet the external challenges, he added. “Our defence ideology is based on prosperous people and the best military capability. Today, the army is a symbol of the country’s integrity and solidarity. Pakistan is our destiny and we will leave no stone unturned to make it more developed and prosperous.” He said that the Pakistan Military Academy had a special place among the world’s military academies. The army chief said that he was standing at a place from where he started his journey in 1969. “And what I have achieved during 44 years is bestowed upon me by the country.” “After getting close to the end of long journey, I can say that the country’s sovereignty is a guarantee of our development and that of of the coming generations. From today, you (cadets) are guarantors of the country’s sovereignty,” he added. He congratulated the parents of cadets, who were commissioned on Saturday. He also felicitated the cadets of Islamic and friendly countries, including Palestine, Bahrain and Nepal, who were also commissioned.

Azadi Parade 2013 at Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul

PMA KAKUL (Abbottabad), Aug 14, 2013: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani has called for creating a national consensus against terrorism and stressed for a swift implementation of strategy made to root out this menace.Addressing at Azadi Parade here Tuesday night, he said there could be two opinions regarding making a strategy to fight terrorism, but to bow before this curse was not a solution. He said that Pakistan Armed Forces have rendered sacrifices to overcome terrorism and even today they are standing shoulder to shoulder with the nation. The COAS said that this war could only be won when the entire nation would unite on one strategy, so that there would no confusion in the mind of forces as well as the terrorists. As a nation we were not failed neither we would fail for which we need blessings of Allah Almighty, he said adding those who were creating confusion regarding future of Pakistan were actually unable to understand the resolve and spirit of Pakistani nation. It is imperative that we think and understand by putting aside all religious, linguistic and regional differences to make our path easy, he added. The COAS made it clear that terrorists would never succeed in their nefarious designs because the nation had been facing this menace for the last 10 years without any fear, adding terrorists could not succeed against such a brave nation. He gave the example of the entire nation which cast votes during general elections despite severe threats. Gen Kayani said that efforts of one or some institutions would not be sufficient to effectively overcome terrorism, but each and every institution along with the entire society would have to strive against it. It would not be possible to overcome these threats unless the entire nation is united and on one page against it, he added. He reminded that the national interest would be the first priority adding, we should not forget that independence was a gift and there were some responsibilities to maintain it. Gen Kayani said that individual benefits should not be allowed to negate national interests and we all should think about the welfare of the country and the nation. The COAS said that all the countrymen were fully aware of the importance of Independence Day adding, the creation of Pakistan was not a coincidence but it was fruit of the spirit and continuous struggle of our forefathers. He said that objective behind creation of Pakistan was not only to get a piece of land but to establish such a welfare state and a society based on golden Islamic principles, where not only Muslims but minorities could also enjoy individual and religious freedom and that enjoy a unique and great place among the world nations. The COAS asked the nation to come forward and vow to make Pakistan a welfare state and give our homeland a proper place among the comity of nations.

Passing out parade of 127 PMA Long Course

April 20, 2013, PMA Kakul, Abbotabad: Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani reviewed an impressive Passing out parade of 127th PMA Long Course, 46th Integrated Course and 1st Mujahid Course at Pakistan Military Academy, Kakul, as the chief guest today. He congratulated all the graduating cadets on successful completion of their basic military training, including those from our brotherly Islamic countries of Palestine, Sudan and Turkmenistan,, and felicitated their proud parents. He specially commended all the award  winners. Salient quotes from his speech are:-

"this day marks the culmination of your basic military training at an Institution which stands out with distinction amongst the leading military academies of the world."
"You will be fortunate to command the soldiers who are known for their unflinching loyalty and sense of sacrifice. Our soldiers are known for delivering best results in the most challenging environment."

"I am confident that Pakistan Military Academy, has instilled in you the highest standards of discipline, honour and integrity. It is your first and foremost responsibility to maintain these standards. Your life as commissioned officers in Pakistan Army will be challenging. It demands the best in professional skills and leadership qualities. I have full trust that you will never hesitate to always place your Country, Pak Army and your men before your own selves."

 "In our short history, we have overcome many a challenges that would have overwhelmed lesser nations. I am sure we can do it again. We are going through difficult times, but so has every other successful nation at some time in their history. Pak Army is fully committed to the cause and as always standing with the nation. I assure you that we will succeed if we remain committed to the basis for creation of Pakistan and remain steadfast as a nation."

" Let me remind you that Pakistan was created in the name of Islam and Islam can never ever be taken out of Pakistan. However, Islam should always remain a unifying force. I assure you that regardless of odds, Pakistan Army will keep on doing its best towards our common dream for a truly Islamic Republic of Pakistan envisioned by the Quaid-e-Azam and Allama Iqbal".

"Pakistan is a peace loving country. Our quest for peace is essentially based on a genuine desire to improve our lot and that of our future generations. Let no one see it as a weakness. We have exercised restraint in the face of some very belligerent statements in recent months. Let it suffice to say that Pakistan is fully capable of responding effectively to any threat. Despite our current focus on internal security, we remain fully prepared to defeat an external direct threat."
        "Let there be no doubt that with a strong Pak Army and the nation standing with it united, no harm can ever come to Pakistan, Inshallah."

 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 awarding coveted Sword of Honour to Battalion Senior Under Officer Awais Iftikhar from 127th PMA Long Course during Passing Out Parade held at Pakistan Military Academy Kakul on Saturday. (20-4-2013)

CHIEF OF ARMY STAFF GENERAL ASHFAQ PARVEZ KAYANI,NI(M),HI

ADDRESS

PRESIDENT’S PARADE

Major General Sadiq Ali, Commandant Pakistan Military Academy, Graduating Cadets of 127th PMA Long Course, 
Integrated Course 46, Mujahid Course-1,
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen!

Assalam-o-Alaikum!

I feel honoured and privileged to review the Passing Out Parade, today. This day marks the culmination of your basic military training at an Institution which stands out with distinction amongst the leading military academies of the world. My heartiest felicitations to you for becoming part of the great institution that is Pakistan Army. I also congratulate the graduating cadets of our brotherly Islamic Countries; Palestine, Sudan and Turkmenistan.  I also want to extend my felicitations to your proud parents. 
I appreciate the efforts of your trainers at PMA who have helped mould you as future leaders of Pak Army. Let me also extend my special commendations to the Champion Company and those who have won awards of excellence. 
Dear Cadets!

I am confident that Pakistan Military Academy has instilled in you the highest standards of discipline, honour and integrity. It is your first and foremost responsibility to maintain these standards. Your life as commissioned officers in Pakistan Army will be challenging. It demands the best in professional skills and leadership qualities. I have full trust that you will never hesitate to always place your Country, Pak Army and your men before your own selves.  

You will be fortunate to command the soldiers who are known for their unflinching loyalty and sense of sacrifice. Our soldiers are known for delivering best results in the most challenging environment. When you command these brave men, you will see why Pakistan Army enjoys the respect as a professional Army both inside as well as outside Pakistan. Never forget that the relationship and trust between our officers and the men is the bedrock of that reputation. During active operations, our officers have always upheld the proud tradition of leading from the front, regardless of the cost. I expect nothing less from you. 
In command you will be vested with authority. However, never forget that in the profession of Arms, you never make a good commander unless you are a good leader as well. I would like you to be good commanders and inspiring leaders as well. It requires both professional competence and character. Always remember that it is the character which makes command an honour, and not just another job.
Dear Cadets!

Never forget that you have become part of an institution where nothing else but your own merit will be the sole consideration for career progression. Be ambitious. There is nothing wrong with it, but the only way to achieve your ambitions is through hard work. There is no shortcut to it. Do have a dream and always aim high. I urge you to take pride in excellence in whatever you do, as this is the best source of personal satisfaction.

Ladies and Gentlemen!

In our short history, we have overcome many a challenges that would have overwhelmed lesser nations. I am sure we can do it again. We are going through difficult times, but so has every other successful nation at some time in their history. Pak Army is fully committed to the cause and as always standing with the nation. I assure you that we will succeed if we remain committed to the basis for creation of Pakistan and remain steadfast as a nation. Let me remind you that Pakistan was created in the name of Islam and Islam can never ever be taken out of Pakistan. However, Islam should always remain a unifying force. I assure you that regardless of odds, Pakistan Army will keep on doing its best towards our common dream for a truly Islamic Republic of Pakistan envisioned by the Quaid-e-Azam and Allama Iqbal.

 Ladies and Gentlemen!

Pakistan is a peace loving country. Our quest for peace is essentially based on a genuine desire to improve our lot and that of our future generations. Let no one see it as a weakness. We have exercised restraint in the face of some very belligerent statements in recent months. Let it suffice to say that Pakistan is fully capable of responding effectively to any threat. Despite our current focus on internal security, we remain fully prepared to defeat an external direct threat. 

Let there be no doubt that with a strong Pak Army and the nation standing with it united, no harm can ever come to Pakistan. Insha Allah.

Dear Cadets!

I conclude by welcoming you to the officers’ Corps of the Pakistan Army, and earnestly pray for your bright future. May Allah help you serve your Country and the Nation with the highest sense of loyalty, commitment and selflessness! Ameen!

Pakistan Army Zindabad,

Pakistan Paindabad

Cadets of PMA Kakul mount guard at Quaid's Mazar - 2012

December 25th, 2012: 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 Tuesday as a part of celebration to mark the Father of the nation's 136th birth anniversary.

Major General Sadiq Ali, 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.