COAS calls for brotherhood, harmony, tolerance in social affairs

In his address at the Defence and Martyrs Day ceremony, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir paid tribute to Pakistan's martyrs and prayed for the elevation of their ranks.

He emphasized that the sacred blood of the martyrs had nurtured the nation's soil and reaffirmed the country's determination to protect its sovereignty.

"The Pakistan Army and the people of Pakistan know how to defend their sovereignty and will never allow malicious intentions to succeed," General Munir stated firmly. He underscored that unwavering faith in Pakistan's bright future is an integral part of the country's identity.

The army chief commended the resilience and courage of the Pakistani people, who stand united with the armed forces and law enforcement agencies in combating the forces of evil. "The people of Pakistan are a resilient and brave nation," he remarked.

Reflecting on the nation's long-standing fight against terrorism, General Munir acknowledged the ongoing sacrifices being made in this struggle, vowing that they would continue until the threat of terrorism is eradicated. He honored the sacrifices of the Pakistan Army, law enforcement agencies, and the people of Pakistan, particularly those from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) and Balochistan, for their unmatched courage in the fight against terrorism.

He also highlighted several national achievements, including the country's unified stance against extremist ideologies, the Paigham-e-Pakistan initiative, the successful management of the western borders, the merger of tribal areas, and the socio-economic development efforts in K-P and Balochistan.

General Munir expressed deep gratitude to the martyrs and veterans of Pakistan, stating, "We breathe in free air today because of the sacrifices of these martyrs." He affirmed that their sacrifices remain the nation's identity and a source of immense pride. He assured the people that no external force could defeat Pakistan.

In addition to honoring the martyrs, he acknowledged the bravery of those wounded in battle and the veterans who have defended the country. "The sacrifices of our martyrs and Ghazis will ensure that the defence of the nation remains invincible," he declared.

The army chief also thanked Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the prime minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and other dignitaries for their presence, which he said uplifted the spirits of the officers, soldiers, veterans, and families of the martyrs.

General Munir called for national unity and solidarity, urging the nation to embrace brotherhood, tolerance, and harmony in social affairs. He also stressed the importance of safeguarding the rights of minorities, as enshrined in the Constitution of Pakistan, and called for an end to religious intolerance.