During a meeting with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Asim Munir on Wednesday, President Asif Ali Zardari expressed concern over “unsubstantiated allegations made by a particular political party and a few individuals” against the army for their political gains.
The meeting between COAS Munir and Zardari took place at the Presidency, as per an official statement.
According to the statement, the army chief congratulated Zardari on his appointment as president and wished him a successful tenure.
“During the meeting, the COAS briefed the president on the army’s ongoing operations against terrorism and highlighted its preparedness against conventional threats.
“The COAS also informed the president about the army’s contributions to development initiatives, especially in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa regions,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, Zardari praised the armed forces’ role, stating that their contributions had been crucial in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Zardari also lauded the army’s efforts in the social uplift of affected areas, emphasizing their steadfast commitment to national progress, the statement added.
“The president reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to combating terrorism and affirmed the nation’s readiness to respond forcefully through all national resources,” the statement further said.
The president expressed serious concern over baseless allegations made by a specific political party and some individuals against the army and its leadership for narrow political gains, vowing to deal firmly with such disruptive elements.
Zardari also honored the sacrifices of martyrs, stating that their blood would forever symbolize the resilience and strength of the Pakistani nation, and reiterated the nation’s commitment to honoring martyrs and their families.
“The meeting concluded with a message of solidarity and determination to uphold the values of peace, security, and progress in Pakistan,” the statement concluded.
