LAHORE, Oct 23 (APP): Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Raheel Sharif said Operation Zarb-e-Azb was an example of War for Peace, which was bringing stability and prosperity to Pakistan and the region.
He was speaking as a chief guest at the closing ceremony of the first international PACES competition here at the Fortress stadium on Sunday night. Pakistan Army was declared as the overall champion of the First International PACES Competition-2016 that concluded amid a graceful ceremony.
“Today, our brave men can tell the world with pride that by eliminating terrorist networks from the far reaches of Pak-Afghan border, an environment of peace and prosperity is flourishing,” said the COAS adding “Having overcome the heartless enemy, we are set to march forward on the road to progress.”
General Raheel Sharif termed the International PACES competition ” a landmark event ” which brought together participants from 18 leading Armies of the world.
As a unique competition of its kind, the occasion was an opportunity to promote mutual cooperation and brotherhood. Today, Pakistan stood more integrated with rest of the world than ever before with such events as a fine example, he asserted.
“As the participants must have experienced, PACES is designed to demand and generate a high level of combat efficiency which is essential for the challenges of modern warfare. It is heartening to find that all the competitors displayed a very high standard of sportsmanship, physical fitness and determination to give their best,” said the COAS.
“This amply reflects the degree of emphasis adopted by modern armies on individual physical fitness and readiness of the troops in the face of evolving nature of warfare,” he maintained.
General Raheel Sharif congratulated all the participants, especially those who have excelled in various events, and hoped that this experience would enhance their passion for battle worthiness.
He hoped that the participants of the PACES had relished the environment and the excitement of competing under challenging conditions. The COAS said Physical Agility and Combat Efficiency System of Pakistan Army had proven its effectiveness during the recent fight against terrorism and our troops confronted insurmountable challenges that called for extreme endurance and constant vigilance.
“Our success against terrorism owes immensely to the physical strength and mental robustness of our officers & men. This, coupled with sincerity of purpose and clear direction, contributed heavily towards fortifying their will and morale during intense and demanding operations,” he added.
I have always believed that it is the disposition of the soldier that determines the outcome of the battle.
General Raheel Sharif said Pakistan Army was trained to constantly uphold its soldierly attributes of Courage, Character & Competence to fulfill the trust reposed by the Nation.
He said the participants must have enjoyed the beauty and serenity of Pakistan and the hospitality of our people, and their presence was a mark of our everlasting friendship.
“I earnestly hope that your stay in Pakistan has been comfortable and you will carry pleasant memories back home,” said the COAS.
He said the 1st International PACES Competition had been a great success and we look forward to holding such events in future as well, and we would see even larger and more diverse participation.
“On behalf of Pakistan Army, I once again extend my gratitude to the delegates for their participation and my compliments to the organizers, especially IGT&E and Commander 4 Corps, for holding this international event in a praiseworthy manner,” said the COAS.
COAS General Raheel Sharif distributed prizes amongst the winners. Pak Army got the first place. Second position went to China, while Sri Lanka and Nepalese Armies got third and fourth positions respectively. Pakistan Army’s Mohammed Faisal was declared as the fittest athlete of the competition.
