Country’s Armed Forces Fully Capable Of Coping internal, external challenges: PM

THAL COMPLEX, Apr 6 (APP): Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza on Tuesday said the country’s defence forces were fully capable of coping with internal and external challenges and expressed satisfaction over the high state of preparedness of Pakistan Air Force in carrying out anti-terrorist operations.The Prime Minister was addressing a select audience after witnessing a live fire power demonstration by the aircraft of Pakistan Air Force, marking successful conclusion of the first phase of exercise High Mark 2010. Chairman Joint chiefs of Staff Committee, three Services Chiefs, federal minister for defence and foreign defence attaches also witnessed the awesome fire power demonstration. The demonstration represented by the complete fleet of PAF, reflective of the devastating fire power of the PAF, was performed by F-16, JF-17 Thunder and Mirage aircraft at the PAF Thal Range. Prime Minister Gilani, who took keen interest in exercises of targeting the mock hideouts of terrorists said the speed, accuracy and strength of Pakistan Air Force was clearly visible in the demonstration. He expressed satisfaction that Pakistan Air Force, despite its heavy commitment in the ongoing Counter Terrorist Operations, and remaining within its own resources, undertook a major exercise High Mark-2010, which shows its full preparedness for its missions, role and task. He said the event not only portrayed the true potential of Pakistan Air Force, but also indicates its superior professionalism, incomparable skills and matchless team work of its air warriors, as well as the vision and planning of its commanders. Gilani said Pakistan strives for peace in a stable environment and assured the regional countries that it has no aggressive designs against anyone. “We, however, need to test our defensive capabilities,” he said.