Jinnah Naval Base construction gets Pak Defence Committee's approval

Islamabad, Nov 28 (UNI) Pakistan Defence Committee of the Cabinet has approved construction of the second phase of the Jinnah Naval Base at Ormara in southwestern Balochistan province and committed funds for the project's completion.

Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz, who chaired the meeting in Islamabad yesterday, said Pakistan was a peaceful country and it would continue to provide adequate facilities to its armed forces to ensure peace and stability in the region.

''Pakistan's Defence policy is in conformity with the prevailing geo-strategic environment and measures up to its national inspirations,'' an official statement quoted Mr Aziz as saying at the meeting.

Emphasising that Pakistan did not have ill-intention against any country, the Prime Minister said Pakistan wanted to peacefully settle all disputes with India, including the Kashmir problem.

''The resolution of the Kashmir problem in accordance to the wishes of the people of the state is necessary for the lasting peace in the South Asia,'' he said.

The meeting was also attended by Defence Minister Rao Sikandar Iqbal, Interior Minister Aftab Sherpao, Chairman Joint Chiefs General Ehsan-ul-haq among other other top civil and military officials.

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