CANBERRA, SEPT 08 (DNA) -Pakistan High Commission, Canberra (Australia) celebrated the Defence Day in a dignified ceremony in which the chief guest was Major General Simone Louise Wilkie AO, Commander of Australian Defence College.

The event was very well attended by members of Diplomatic Corps, Defence Attachés, senior Government officials, Pakistani community, media representatives and think tanks notables.

Naela Chohan, Pakistan High Commissioner to Australia, in her address on the occasion, highlighted the significance of the day and paid rich tributes to the Defence Forces for safeguarding the honour and sovereignty of Pakistan.

Giving an overview of the security challenges faced by Pakistan, the High Commissioner further stated that Pakistan was desirous of peaceful and friendly relations with its neighbours and was sincere in pursuing policy of regional cooperation but was capable of facing any threat to its security.

 She stated that Pakistan’s stand on Kashmir is clear and principled and expressed the hope that international community would play its role in the peaceful resolution of Kashmir issue in accordance with UNSC resolutions.

High Commissioner Naela Chohan also briefed the august gathering on theongoing fight against terrorism and extremism and stated that operation “Zarb-e-Azb” was successful and now “Rad-ul-Fasad” which has taken on board all the stakeholders, is bearing positive results to rid our society from terrorists and nefarious designs of the enemies.

She added that the nation stands united with its armed forces in their commendable efforts to defend the country.

The High Commissioner also emphasized the importance of CPEC in peace and prosperity of the region. She also expressed satisfaction over the growing and deepening of defence cooperation between Pakistan and Australia.

Speaking on the occasion, Defence Adviser Brigadier Muhammad Asim Khan said that the unprecedented national unity demonstrated by the people and Armed Forces of Pakistan on 6 September 1965 had made it a unique and memorable day in our history.

 He said the nation is united again to defeat the menace of terrorism, it has largely been eradicated; we have entered final phase to defeat terrorism through Operation RaddulFassad.

 The Brigadier further added that we have ready and arrayed Armed Forces, who are well trained, well equipped and highly motivated to defend the motherland against any external aggression.

A presentation was also made to the guests on Pakistan’s ongoing combat efforts for peace and stability not only inside Pakistan but at regional and extra regional level. The guests were served with traditional Pakistani cuisine.=DNA

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