Pakistan today stands integrated with the world, says Pak Army chief Raheel Sharif

Lahore: Amid India’s campaign to diplomatically isolate Pakistan globally on all fronts, Army Chief Gen Raheel Sharif on Sunday said Pakistan now “stands integrated” with the rest of the world than ever before. “Today Pakistan is more stronger than ever before. Pakistan stands integrated with the rest of the world than ever before,” Raheel said, addressing the concluding ceremony of the First International PACES Competition-2016 in Lahore. [caption id=“attachment_3050196” align=“alignleft” width=“380”] File image of Raheel Sharif. Reuters[/caption] The armies of 18 countries including Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Maldives, Qatar, Australia, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Russia, Turkey and the United Kingdom participated in the first six-day World Physical Agility and Combat Efficiency System (PACES) event held in Lahore. Following the Uri terror attack in Kashmir, India has stepped up its efforts to isolate Pakistan globally on all fronts. The army chief further said that Zarb-e-Azb Operation against militants has brought “stability and prosperity” to Pakistan. “Operation Zarb-e-Azb is an example of war for peace which is bringing stability and prosperity to Pakistan and the region. 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. Having overcome the heartless enemy, we are set to march forward on the road to progress,” he said. Raheel further said: “Physical Agility and Combat Efficiency System of Pakistan army has proven its effectiveness during the recent fight against terrorism. 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 and men. This, coupled with sincerity of purpose and clear direction contributed heavily towards fortifying their will and morale during intense and demanding operations,” he said and added that it is the disposition of the soldier that determines the outcome of the battle." “The Pakistan army is trained to constantly uphold its soldierly attributes of courage, character and competence to fulfil the trust reposed by the nation,” he said. The army chief said the First International PACES Competition has been a “great success”. “We look forward to holding such events in future as well and I am sure that we will see even larger and more diverse participation,” he said.