COAS Gen. Syed Asim Munir Vows Strong Response to Foreign-Sponsored Terrorism, Stresses National Unity

Rawalpindi: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir engaged with the participants of the 15th National Workshop Balochistan at the General Headquarters (GHQ) on Monday.

According to a press release from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the workshop, which has been held annually since 2016, brings together a diverse group of male and female parliamentarians, bureaucrats, civil society members, youth, academia, and media representatives, with a special emphasis on participants from Balochistan.

The workshop includes a series of interactions, seminars, group discussions, and visits across the country. Its primary objective is to equip the future leadership of Balochistan with a deeper understanding of critical national and provincial issues and to foster a unified response to these challenges.

During his address, COAS General Syed Asim Munir emphasized the government’s continuous focus on improving Balochistan’s socio-economic profile. He stressed that the scale and scope of ongoing and planned initiatives aim to counter misinformation surrounding the province’s development.

Highlighting the progress of several development projects that have already started benefiting the people of Balochistan, the COAS praised the role of civil society members, particularly the youth, in raising awareness and contributing to the region’s progress and prosperity.

The COAS also underscored the persistent threat of foreign-sponsored terrorism, which he described as the most significant challenge to Balochistan’s security and development. He warned that hostile elements attempting to incite violence, spread fear, and destabilize the province would not be allowed to succeed.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s resolve, General Munir stated that terrorism does not discriminate on the basis of religion, sect, or ethnicity and must be confronted with unyielding national unity. He added that terrorist groups attempting to use the name of Baloch identity to advance their malicious agenda tarnish the honor and patriotism of the Baloch people.

General Asim Munir reiterated that while Pakistan seeks peace within the region and beyond, any violation of the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity would be met with a forceful response to preserve national pride and the welfare of its citizens.

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The COAS concluded by assuring the public that Pakistan’s Armed Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies will continue to combat the menace of terrorism with the unwavering support of the people of Pakistan.

The workshop ended with an engaging and open Q&A session.