youth most expensive asset of Pakistan, no one to be allowed to waste it: COAS

Islamabad: General Syed Asim Munir addressed the National Youth Convention in Islamabad on Wednesday, underscoring his unwavering commitment to defeating terrorism and ensuring Pakistan’s security. The event, also attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, highlighted the crucial role of unity among the nation, government, and military in safeguarding the country’s future.

In his address, Gen Munir assured attendees that “Pakistan’s future is in safe hands,” emphasizing the importance of a strong national bond in ensuring prosperity. He asserted that the state’s responsibility includes countering the negative impacts of social media, stressing that those who previously forecasted Pakistan’s downfall have faded into obscurity.

Drawing comparisons to the struggles faced by countries like Libya, Syria, Kashmir, and Gaza, Gen Munir highlighted the value of an independent state and urged the nation to maintain hope for a brighter future. He emphasized that despair is not an option for Muslims and reaffirmed that Pakistan’s youth is a vital and valuable asset that must be preserved.

The COAS reiterated his confidence in Pakistan’s ability to overcome terrorism, noting the steadfast support of the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) over the past 22 years in the fight against extremism. He also called upon tribal leaders to engage in dialogue to resolve disputes, reinforcing the importance of cooperative efforts in achieving stability.

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This statement follows the federal government’s launch of a new anti-terrorism initiative, Azm-e-Istehkam (Resolve for Stability), aimed at addressing the recent uptick in terrorist activities across the country. The military’s media wing has indicated that the operation seeks to synchronize national counter-terrorism efforts to dismantle terrorism networks and enhance stability and economic growth.

The Pakistan Army has responded firmly to criticisms of the new anti-terrorism campaign, emphasizing that it will not be a large-scale military operation but rather a coordinated effort to tackle both physical and digital terrorism. The institution has vowed to confront “digital terrorism” and counteract foreign-backed misinformation and propaganda aimed at destabilizing the nation.

The announcement reaffirms the military’s commitment to a comprehensive approach to counter-terrorism, blending strategic operations with efforts to combat misinformation and maintain national cohesion.