Hostile forces using propaganda, proxies against Pakistan will fail: CDF Munir

Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on Tuesday said hostile forces seeking to derail Pakistan’s progress through proxies and propaganda would fail, reaffirming the armed forces’ commitment to eliminating militancy and ensuring lasting peace in Balochistan.

“Pakistan’s destined rise cannot be obstructed through propaganda, fake news or externally sponsored terrorism,” Chief of Army Staff Munir said addressing student officers and faculty members at Command and Staff College, Quetta.

During his address, the field marshal appreciated high standards of training, intellectual rigour and professionalism that remain the hallmark of Command and Staff College, Quetta. He noted with satisfaction that the graduates of the college have continued to distinguish themselves through their exceptional performance and dedication to the profession.

The army chief highlighted rapidly transforming character of modern warfare and stressed the importance of remaining abreast with emerging technologies, multi-domain operations, tri-services synergy and future battlefield challenges.

“The officers should continuously train themselves and their troops to effectively respond to the changing character of war while maintaining highest standards of professionalism, preparedness and operational excellence,” he advised.

Later, the field marshal interacted with officers and troops of formations deployed in Balochistan. Highlighting the contours of prevailing security environment, he reaffirmed that Pakistan Armed Forces, with the steadfast support of the people, remain fully committed to the eradication of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

“The hostile forces attempting to derail Pakistan’s progress through proxies and propaganda will ultimately fail due to the resilience of the state and the unity of its people,” he reiterated.

Underscoring the importance of sustainable peace and stability in Balochistan, the field marshal highlighted that long-term progress depends upon a people-centric approach, inclusive development and improved governance alongside security efforts.

He appreciated the ongoing efforts of the government of Balochistan focused on public welfare, socio-economic uplift and strengthening the bond between the state and the people of the province.

CDF Munir also appreciated the high morale, operational readiness and professional commitment of officers and troops in maintaining peace, stability and the writ of the state in Balochistan.

Earlier, upon his arrival at Quetta, the COAS and CDF was received by the Commander Quetta Corps.

PM vows to defend citizens lives

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also visited Command & Staff College, Quetta, and addressed the faculty and student officers.

The prime minister lauded the professionalism, operational preparedness, and sacrifices of the Pakistan Armed Forces in safeguarding national sovereignty and ensuring peace and stability. He paid rich tribute to the Shuhada and the unwavering commitment of the Armed Forces in defence of the motherland.

Referring to Marka-e-Haq, PM Shehbaz paid tribute to the Pakistan Armed Forces historic victory under the leadership of Field Marshal Munir. He highlighted Pakistan’s responsible conduct and escalation control against India’s unprovoked hubristic aggression, stating that Pakistan’s mature, prudent and just stance was also acknowledged by the international community.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to defend sovereignty and territorial integrity against any misadventure at all costs.

The premier stated that Operation Ghazab-lil-Haq is continuing with full resolve to defend lives and property of innocent citizens against Afghan Taliban based terrorist proxies and to inflict punishment on terrorist hideouts and support infrastructures. He also reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the people of Jammu & Kashmir and Palestine.

While acknowledging the presence of students of friendly countries, he underscored the importance of military diplomacy and cooperation and the strides made by Pakistan as Net Regional Stabiliser to contribute towards peace, stability and progression in the region and beyond.

PM Shehbaz was also accompanied by the federal defence, interior and information ministers and chief minister of Balochistan.

Earlier upon arrival at the Command & Staff College Quetta, the PM was received by COAS Munir.