Security Must Not Be Compromised at Any Cost: COAS

In a recent interaction during the National Security Workshop – 25 at the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir underscored the uncompromisable nature of every Pakistani’s safety and security.

The COAS specifically addressed the sensitive issue of repatriating and deporting illegal foreigners. The stance comes after the interim government’s stern directive earlier this month, demanding all undocumented immigrants, especially Afghan nationals, to leave Pakistan by October 31 or face subsequent imprisonment and deportation.

The rigorous policy decision, emerging from an apex committee meeting chaired by Interim Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar, mandates proper travel documents for cross-border movement, limiting the acceptance of electronic Afghan identity cards to the October deadline.

Vigilance Against Hostile Propaganda: The Role of Society

Speaking to the workshop attendees, General Munir lauded the Pakistani Armed Forces, along with the security and intelligence agencies, for their formidable stand against terrorism. He acknowledged the challenges faced due to the persistent adversities plotted by antagonistic forces but expressed confidence in the nation’s triumph with ongoing public support.

Moreover, the General stressed the significant duty of intellectuals and the broader civil society to safeguard the nation, particularly the youth, against insidious propaganda to undermine Pakistan’s state institutions. He urged vigilance and resilience in combating these soft offensives.

Enhancing National Security: Measures and Initiatives

Participants at the workshop received insights into various strategies to suppress illegal undertakings, ranging from smuggling and power theft to narcotics circulation, enhancing border security and expelling illegal foreigners. General Munir reiterated, “Safety and security of each Pakistani is paramount and cannot be allowed to be compromised at any cost.”

In addition to security concerns, the COAS illuminated the economic uplift anticipated by initiatives like the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC). He asserted the army’s commitment to bolstering national and provincial strategies across different sectors, collaborating with state institutions for Pakistan’s collective welfare. His reflections culminated with a reminder of the nation’s resilience and journey towards peace and stability.

The workshop, an integral annual feature at the National Defence University, sees diverse participation from parliamentarians, civil and military officers, and civil society representatives, with 98 attendees, including General Munir, enriching this year’s discourse.