Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir emphasized that weakening the armed forces is equivalent to weakening the nation. He pledged that the military would ensure their sacrifices are not in vain.
During the Azadi Parade at Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) in Kakul on Independence Day, General Munir stated, “We emerge stronger as a nation after trials and tribulations. Weakening Pakistan’s armed forces is equivalent to weakening the country.”
The parade was held at PMA Kakul to mark the 78th Independence Day. The COAS stressed that the armed forces would not let the sacrifices of martyrs be wasted. He added that the nation’s unwavering trust in the Pakistan Army is the military’s most valuable asset.
“No negative force has ever succeeded in weakening this relationship of trust and love, nor will it in the future,” he affirmed. The armed forces, he said, have taken an oath to defend the country both internally and externally.
Referring to the ongoing crises, the COAS noted, “Historically, we as a nation have always emerged stronger after every hardship.” He highlighted the mutual trust between the nation and the armed forces as a key factor in overcoming challenges.
General Munir also warned that internal conflicts and chaos weaken the country, opening the door for external aggression. “Pakistan was established to stand out among the comity of nations. Pakistan is a reality that cannot be undone,” he declared.
He reiterated that the people of Pakistan are living as a free nation because of the martyrs’ sacrifices. The COAS stressed that the foundation of Pakistan’s national consciousness is rooted in the two-nation theory.
“May Almighty Allah grant us the courage and strength to defend the country and make it a successful example for future generations,” he prayed.
General Munir emphasized that the two-nation theory provided the Muslims of the subcontinent with a distinct identity, culture, and civilization. He warned that the menace of terrorism is resurfacing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa due to the anti-state activities of “Fitna-ul-Khawarij.”
The government recently categorized the outlawed Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) as “Fitna ul-Khawarij” to shift its war on terror from a physical to an ideological front. General Munir reiterated his stance on the issue, saying, “If you do not follow the Sharia and the Constitution of Pakistan, we do not consider you Pakistani.”
The COAS paid tribute to the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, stating, “The entire nation salutes them and is indebted to them.”
He also expressed gratitude to the brotherly countries that continuously support Pakistan economically and morally on international forums. “We are thankful to China, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and Turkey for their unwavering support during difficult times,” he said.
In a stern message to Pakistan’s enemies, the COAS warned, “Whether it’s a conventional or unconventional war, our response will be swift and painful.”
Addressing the Kashmir issue, General Munir reaffirmed Pakistan’s moral, political, and diplomatic support to the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir in their struggle for self-determination.
The COAS was the chief guest at the Azadi Parade ceremony. The cadets of the Pakistan Military Academy showcased their skills in a spectacular drill parade, with a special tribute to the martyrs of the nation.
