Pakistan's Desire For Peace Must Not Be Misconstrued As Weakness: President Arif Alvi

President Dr. Arif Alvi says Pakistan believes in peaceful co-existence but its desire for peace should not be misconstrued as weakness.

ISLAMABAD (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / NNI - 23rd March, 2019) President Dr. Arif Alvi says Pakistan believes in peaceful co-existence but its desire for peace should not be misconstrued as weakness.Addressing the military parade in Islamabad on Saturday, he said Pakistan is a responsible nuclear state and it wants peace and development, not war.

He said Pakistan respects integrity and sovereignty of other states.The President said India's irresponsible attitude has jeopardized peace in the region. He said India will have to accept Pakistan as a reality, and it must come to the conclusion that dialogue is the only way to resolve issues.Dr.

Arif Alvi said Pakistan has the right to respond to any aggression, and its armed forces, which have always been alert to defend the motherland, befittingly responded to the Indian strike after Pulwama incident, for which the entire nation pays tribute to its valiant armed forces.The President said we are a peaceful nation, but are not oblivious to our defence, and the same has been proved in the recent demonstration of Pakistan's defence capability.Dr.

Arif Alvi said today Pakistan is a strong military force and an emerging economy. He said we will continue building Pakistan in the light of the principles of the Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Muhammad Iqbal.Terming terrorism as a threat to world peace, the President said Pakistan has successfully overcome the challenge of terrorism by carrying out effective military operations.

He said the country is safe and now moving on the path of progress and development after effectively combating the menace of terrorism. He, however, pointed out that the country is dealing with the challenges of poverty, hunger, unemployment and extremist mindset.Dr.

Arif Alvi said peace in Afghanistan is imperative for durable peace and stability in Pakistan. He said Pakistan has no interest in Afghanistan except peace, and it fully supports political reconciliation in Afghanistan.The President said today's military parade demonstrates resolve, determination and capability of Pakistan's armed forces besides reflecting Pakistan's security and sovereignty.He said the participation of the representatives of Pakistan's friendly countries including Saudi Arabia, China, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Bahrain and Sri Lanka has added valour to today's military parade, and this signifies Pakistan's friendship with these countries.

He also thanked Malaysian Prime Minister for gracing the occasion as guest of honour.Underlining the significance of the day, the President said March 23 is an important milestone of our national history when the Muslims of the sub-continent resolved through Pakistan Resolution that they would get a separate homeland for them to lead their political, social and economic lives in the light of Islamic teachings.

He said the unmatched leadership of the father of the nation made this resolve a reality. NNI