Pakistan does not have 'hegemonistic designs': Yousuf Raza Gilani

Prime minister Yousuf Raza Gilani today said Pakistan has no "hegemonistic designs" in the region and does not intend to get involved in an arms race with any country.

Speaking at a ceremony to induct the second Chinese made F-22 frigate, Gilani said, Pakistan had no expansionist designs in the region but self reliance in defence sector is necessary for the well being of the country.

"We believe that without having any hegemonistic designs it is necessary to have effective defence as a guarantee to peace in the region," Gilani said.

The PNS Shamsheer warship was built in collaboration with China arrived at Karachi Port on Saturday. Gilani announced Rs50 million fund for the welfare of Pakistan Navy sailors on the occasion.

He said Pakistan played a key role for the global peace and stability but also believed that a strong defence was an effective deterrent against war.

PNS Shamsheer is the second of the series of four ships being constructed for the PN in collaboration with China at the Hudong Zhonghua Shipyard in Shanghai.

The third ship is also nearing completion and is expected to be handed over to Pakistan in the third quarter of 2010. The fourth ship is under construction at the Karachi Shipyard under transfer-of-technology arrangements, and will be completed by 2013.