Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, delivered a powerful address at the 123rd Midshipmen and 31st Short Service Commission (SSC) courses’ commissioning parade at the Pakistan Naval Academy, reaffirming Pakistan’s strategic resolve and warning India against any illusion of Pakistan’s weakness. Inspecting the ceremonial passing out parade of Pakistan Navy’s “Maritime Warriors,” Field Marshal Munir said it was an honour to witness such a spectacular display of professionalism. “The cadets’ exceptional turnout and spirited conduct reflect the high standards of the Pakistan Naval Academy,” he remarked.
He praised the graduating officers as symbols of national hope and congratulated award recipients and foreign cadets from Turkey, Bahrain, Iraq, Palestine, and Djibouti on completing their rigorous training.
“You are entering a service defined by military excellence, superior competence, and unwavering professionalism,” he told the new midshipmen and cadets. “Continue striving to strengthen your operational capabilities — maritime warfare is evolving rapidly, and we must remain ahead of the curve.”
The Field Marshal emphasized the urgent need for Pakistan to sustain a powerful and agile maritime force. “Maintaining a robust and effective naval presence is no longer optional it is essential for national defence.”
Field Marshal Munir used the occasion to deliver a pointed message to India, denouncing its “arrogant and belligerent posture.” He said India was attempting to extract political mileage through military brinkmanship, ultra-nationalism, and an exaggerated sense of strategic importance.
“In recent years, India has twice launched unprovoked strikes against Pakistan under the false pretext of counterterrorism,” he said. “Both times, Pakistan’s timely and effective military response prevented escalation into full-scale conflict.”
Despite India’s repeated provocations, he noted, Pakistan had consistently prioritized regional peace. “We responded with maturity, patience, and responsibility — and today, Pakistan is recognised as a net stabilizing force in South Asia.”
However, Field Marshal Munir issued a stern warning: “If the enemy believes Pakistan will tolerate future violations of its sovereignty, it is making a dangerous miscalculation.”
He said Pakistan was steadily building its comprehensive national power and enhancing readiness across all domains. “Any enemy that assumes Pakistan is weak or unwilling to respond will be severely mistaken.”
“If our sovereignty is challenged, the consequences will be borne entirely by the aggressor and those consequences may prove perilous for the entire region,” he cautioned. “Pakistan will defend its sovereignty and national interests without hesitation or compromise.”
Citing Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 249, Field Marshal Munir reminded the gathering: “How often has a small group overcome a mighty host by Allah’s command? And Allah is with those who remain steadfast.”
“Our national spirit has been tested, refined, and strengthened through adversity,” he concluded. “Today, we stand more united, determined, and prepared than ever before.”
