- Takes cognizance of politically motivated ‘digital terrorism’, to undermine state institutions
- Gen Munir states Pakistan Army remains fully prepared to thwart all internal and external challenges
RAWALPINDI: Top military brass expressed concern over ‘what it described’ as unwarranted criticism and deliberate misrepresentation of the ‘vision Azm-e-Istahkam’ for vested interests, emphasizing that Azm-e-Istahkam aims at synchronising national counter-terrorism efforts to dismantle terrorism and illegal activities for enduring stability and economic prosperity.
This declaration was made during the 265th Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC), presided over by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir at GHQ in Rawalpindi on Friday, according to a statement by the military’s media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
Last month, the government announced the operation after a meeting of the Central Apex Committee of National Action Plan, vowing to unleash the full force of the country’s military, diplomatic, legislative, and socio-economic arsenal to decisively defeat terrorism and extremism.
But, the announcement was met by full-throated criticism from opposition parties, including the PTI, Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl and Awami National Party — both inside Parliament and outside — with the KP chief minister even denying that any such thing had been discussed during the apex committee meeting.
According to the ISPR statement, the CCC conducted a comprehensive review of the internal and external security situation, with detailed discussions on “Azm-e-Istehkam.”
The military leadership affirmed its awareness of the full spectrum of challenges and resolved to shoulder its constitutionally mandated responsibilities with the support of the resilient people of Pakistan.
The forum also deliberated on the regional security situation, particularly Afghanistan, reaffirming its commitment to regional peace and security.
The CCC participants paid rich tribute to the supreme sacrifices of the Shuhadas of the Armed Forces, Law Enforcement Agencies, and citizens who have laid down their lives for peace and stability in the country.
The top military brass of Pakistan underscored the onslaught of politically motivated ‘digital terrorism’, orchestrated by conspirators and their foreign cohorts, to undermine state institutions. The Armed Forces, along with the nation, stand united in defeating these malicious designs, the ISPR statement said.
Solidarity was expressed with the people of Kashmir and Palestine, condemning human rights violations, war crimes, and genocide in Kashmir and Gaza.
The forum reiterated its support for ongoing efforts to uplift socioeconomic growth and assist the government in curbing illegal activities that hamper investor confidence, economic stability, and growth. Expressing satisfaction with the Army’s commitment to national security, the COAS stressed maintaining high standards of professionalism and operational preparedness.
Gen Munir concluded by stating that the Pakistan Army remains fully prepared to thwart all internal and external challenges and play its role in the stability and prosperity of Pakistan, regardless of the challenges posed.
