Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, on Friday reaffirmed Pakistan’s right to self-defence and targeted action against terrorism emanating from Afghanistan, holding the Taliban leadership responsible for the consequences of facilitating terrorism on behalf of India.
The army chief made the remarks while presiding over the 277th Corps Commanders’ Conference at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi, where the forum reviewed the prevailing security environment and resolved to maintain a high state of operational readiness.
The forum stated that Pakistan’s right to defend itself against terrorism originating from Afghan territory remained intact, and stressed that the Taliban leadership bears responsibility for the consequences of facilitating terrorism.
The commanders appreciated the sustained and successful intelligence-based counterterrorism operations being conducted by law-enforcement agencies and emphasized that kinetic operations must be complemented by non-kinetic measures to address the broader drivers of terrorism.
These measures, the forum said, include people-centric governance at the grassroots level, strategic engagement with the public, dismantling the terror-crime nexus operating under the patronage of vested interests and strengthening police capacity in line with the National Action Plan and Vision Azm-e-Istehkam.
The conference also underscored the importance of internal stability and resolved that any attempt to create agitation or a situation similar to May 9, regardless of the pretext, would be dealt with through decisive force and the rule of law, without hesitation or discrimination.
At the outset, the forum offered Fateha for the martyrs of the Armed Forces, law-enforcement agencies and civil society who laid down their lives for the country. The commanders paid rich tribute to their supreme sacrifices.
The forum also welcomed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, noting its contribution to longstanding strategic relations and collective defence cooperation among the three countries.
The commanders strongly condemned Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia, expressed solidarity with the Kingdom and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the security and sanctity of the Haramain Sharifain.
On Kashmir, the forum reiterated Pakistan’s stated position on Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and called for resolution of the dispute in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
In his concluding remarks, Field Marshal Asim Munir commended the formations for their operational preparedness and professionalism.
He directed commanders to continue strengthening intelligence-based operations and enhance combat capabilities through the absorption of modern technology, improved training and integration across multiple domains.
The COAS and CDF expressed confidence that the Armed Forces, with the unwavering support of the nation, remain fully prepared to safeguard Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national security.
