COAS apprises president of operational preparedness against conventional threats

ISLAMABAD: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir on Wednesday called on President Asif Ali Zardari at the Presidency and apprised him of the ongoing Army operations against terrorism, highlighting the operational preparedness against conventional threats.

In the meeting, the COAS extended felicitations to Zardari on his appointment as the president of Pakistan and commander in chief of the Armed Forces and conveyed his sincere wishes for a successful tenure, a press release issued by the President House said.

The COAS also intimated about the contributions of Army towards development initiatives, particularly in the regions of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The president acknowledged the exemplary role of the Armed Forces of Pakistan, affirming that Army’s contributions have been instrumental in safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the state, the official news agency reported.

He commended Army’s efforts towards social uplift of the affected areas, underscoring the unwavering commitment of the Pakistan Army to national progress.

The president emphasised Pakistan’s steadfast commitment against terrorism and reaffirmed the nation’s resolve to respond with full force through all elements of national power.

He noted with grave concern the baseless and unsubstantiated allegations levelled by a specific political party and its few individuals against the institution and its leadership to accrue narrow political interests and resolved to deal with such disruptive elements with iron hand.

The president paid homage to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the nation, emphasising that their blood will forever symbolise the resilience and strength of the Pakistani nation.

President Zardari reiterated the nation’s unwavering commitment to honouring the sacrifices of the Shuhadas and their families, holding them in the highest esteem.

The meeting concluded on a note of solidarity and determination to uphold the values of peace, security, and progress in Pakistan.