Army chief raises concerns over banned outfits’ sanctuaries and their freedom of action on Afghan soil.
ISLAMABAD: Chief of Army Staff Gen Syed Asim Munir emphasized that terrorism has no place in Pakistan and expressed concern about the involvement of Afghan nationals in terrorist incidents within Pakistan. He stated that such actions are detrimental to regional peace, stability, and are a deviation from the Doha Peace Agreement by the interim Afghan Government.
The army chief said this during his visit to Peshawar today.
During his visit to Peshawar today, the army chief laid a floral wreath at Yaadgar-e-Shuhada at Fort Bala Hisar (headquarters of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa – North Frontier Corps) and offered prayers. Additionally, he met with tribal elders from the newly merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and notables from all walks of life.
COAS Commends Tribals’ Resolve Against Terrorism And Focus On Socio-Economic Development
Gen Munir also said that “Pakistan has concerns over sanctuaries available to banned outfits and liberty of action they enjoy on Afghan soil”.
He emphasized that Pakistan will spare no effort to dismantle terrorist networks and will protect its citizens at all costs.
The COAS paid rich tribute to the sacrifices of the brave and resilient tribals. He expressed appreciation for their indomitable resolve. They stood shoulder to shoulder with the security forces to defeat the menace of terrorism.
“With the unflinching resolve of the nation, Pakistan is successfully countering terrorism to enable a stable and peaceful environment for socioeconomic development in the area,” he said.
The tribal elders assured that no tribe will ever accept the TTP and its ideology. They pledged to stand with the state through thick and thin.
The COAS emphasized the potential of the newly merged districts. He also emphasized on the ongoing efforts to uplift socio-economic growth under the umbrella of SIFC.
Gen Munir also said that “KP is blessed with huge reserves of mines and minerals, also beautiful areas for tourism, which will certainly change the destiny of the area for the good of the people”.
The Pakistan Army stands firmly with its tribal brothers. It will never abandon them, recognizing their countless sacrifices for the peace and prosperity of the motherland. The focus is now on developing all tribal areas and empowering the youth, he added.
The COAS reaffirms the unwavering determination of the Pakistan Army, Frontier Corps, and other law enforcement agencies. They are in their relentless fight against terrorism until they completely eradicate it from the country.
He expressed determination to eradicate the peril of narcotics, which he stated was becoming the lifeline for TTP terrorists.
“The surge in terrorism in recent past is a futile effort on the part of terrorists to get the talks re-initiated, however, there is no option for these terrorists except to submit to the writ of state of Pakistan before they are decimated, if they persist on their wrong path.”
The army chief restates that they will address propaganda by inimical forces against the armed forces. They will do so in accordance with the law.
Paying tribute to the courageous tribesmen, officers, and soldiers of Pakistan Army, FC, Levies, Khasadars, and police, the COAS pledges that the sacrifices of martyrs will not be in vain. They will restore complete peace in Pakistan.
The Peshawar corps commander welcomes the COAS upon his arrival.
