Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir affirmed that Pakistan will persist in its positive role in promoting both regional and global peace. Speaking at the Margalla Dialogue 2024 in Islamabad on Friday, he discussed the country’s contributions to regional harmony and global security, emphasizing Pakistan’s strategic importance in fostering peace.
General Munir highlighted Pakistan’s determination to combat terrorism, noting the implementation of an extensive border management system to secure the country’s western borders. He identified the “Fitna al-Khwarij” as the ideological backbone for many global terrorist organizations, stressing that Pakistan remains committed to eradicating terrorism and extremism through initiatives like the “Azm-e-Istehkam” National Action Plan.
On the issue of Afghanistan, the Army Chief called on the Afghan interim government to ensure that its soil is not used for terrorism, underlining the importance of strict actions in this regard.
Addressing India’s growing Hindutva ideology, General Munir criticized its impact both within India and on Indian-origin minorities abroad, particularly in the US, UK, and Canada. He also pointed out the ongoing oppression in Kashmir as a result of India’s extremist policies, stressing that a resolution to the Kashmir issue, in line with UN resolutions and Kashmiri aspirations, is essential for regional stability.
The Army Chief also addressed the global challenge of misinformation, warning that the absence of regulations around freedom of expression is undermining moral values and destabilizing societies. He noted that the spread of fake news and hate speech is exacerbating political and social tensions worldwide.
In addition, General Munir discussed the rising influence of non-state actors and the growing threat of state-sponsored terrorism, emphasizing that both pose significant challenges to global security. He pointed to the growing inequality, intolerance, and division based on religious, sectarian, and racial lines as key factors contributing to instability.
Commenting on the situation in Gaza and Lebanon, General Munir condemned Israeli aggression and called for an immediate ceasefire. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s long-standing support for an independent Palestinian state and highlighted Pakistan’s humanitarian assistance to the region.
Reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to global peace, General Munir emphasized the country’s contributions to United Nations peacekeeping missions, with over 235,000 Pakistanis participating and 181 making the ultimate sacrifice. He also underscored Pakistan’s potential, citing its abundant natural resources, agricultural strength, and strategic location, which make it a key player in international trade, particularly with Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East.
