President Dr Arif Alvi says Pakistan is a powerful country but it always desires peace.

Addressing an award distribution ceremony among the organizers of the Pakistan Day parade in Islamabad today, the president said Pakistan Army is among the strongest, most experienced and well-disciplined armies in the world.

He said every Pakistani is ready to render sacrifice for his homeland and this patriotic passion has further been enriched by the Pakistan Day parade that reflected the country’s defence capabilities, professionalism and national solidarity.

Paying homage to their valor, the president said Pakistan’s Armed Forces always kept the national flag flying and have set a precedent by fighting out the terrorism.

He said Pakistan had rendered immense sacrifices in its fight against terrorism besides learning a lot during this course.

Referring to Pulwama incident, the president said baseless allegations had been hurled against Pakistan but the country acted responsibly.

Similarly, Pakistan gave a befitting response when India violated its airspace.

He said despite provocation from across the border, the country showed restraint and gave the world a message of peace.

The President thanked the friendly countries including Saudi Arabia, Azerbaijan, Sri Lanka, Brunei, Bahrain, Turkey and China for participating the annual event.

Earlier, the president also distributed prizes among the organizers of the parade.

President Arif Alvi said that our security forces and the people have rendered unparalleled sacrifices in the war on terrorism over the last two decades or so and successfully tackled the menace.

The President also congratulated the armed forces for the spectacular conduct of the annual parade.

He also thanked the contingents from neighboring countries including Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Azerbaijan and China for participating in the parade.