Army Chief
General Syed Asim Munir, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), recently held a crucial meeting with political leaders from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) in Peshawar, where he discussed important issues relating to the province’s security and overall stability.
During the meeting, the COAS reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to safeguarding its national interests, stating, “Our policy is only Pakistan,” underscoring the army’s dedication to the country’s security and welfare.
A significant part of the conversation focused on Pakistan’s relationship with neighboring Afghanistan. General Munir acknowledged Afghanistan as a brotherly Islamic nation and reiterated Pakistan’s desire for strong and amicable bilateral ties.
However, he pointed out a major issue in their relationship: the presence of extremist groups, referred to as “Khwarij,” operating within Afghanistan. These groups, he stated, are actively engaging in cross-border terrorism, targeting Pakistan and posing a threat to national security.
He made it clear that the continuation of tensions between the two nations will persist until Afghanistan effectively addresses and neutralizes these terrorist elements.
On the security situation in Pakistan, General Munir emphatically denied rumors about large-scale military operations in KP and the presence of extremist groups, such as the Khwarij, operating within Pakistani territory.
He assured that any military actions being conducted in the region are strictly intelligence-based and targeted, emphasizing precision in efforts to combat terrorism.
He raised a poignant question about the morality of such actions, asking if spreading chaos and sedition (“Fitna fil-’Ardh”) is not a grave sin, illustrating the importance of peace and stability.
The COAS also addressed the false narrative suggesting a rift between the Pakistani public and the military. He dismissed these claims as being driven by external agendas aiming to sow discord.
He emphasized the critical importance of unity, stating, “Where there is a state, there is politics. God forbid, without a state, there is nothing.” He urged all citizens to stand together against terrorism, underscoring that progress would only be achieved if the country moves forward united.
Furthermore, General Munir commended the national consensus on the National Action Plan (NAP) and stressed the need for its immediate and effective implementation to address the security challenges faced by the country.
His remarks reinforced the idea that collective effort and solidarity are essential in overcoming the current security challenges and ensuring a prosperous and peaceful future for Pakistan.
