Any external aggression against Pakistan will be met with decisive response: ISPR chief

ISLAMABAD: Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lt-Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry reiterated on Friday that any external aggression against Pakistan will be met with in a “firm and decisive” manner.

His remarks come against the backdrop of rising tensions with Afghanistan in recent days, rooted in Islamabad’s long-standing concern that terrorist attacks are being launched from Kabul. Pakistan has demanded that the Taliban close their soil to groups using it against Pakistan, an allegation the Taliban deny.

In May this year Pakistan faced a historic escalation with neighbouring India — described as the worst in decades — and after four days of intense clashes both sides agreed to a ceasefire through US mediation.

Addressing students and academics at universities in Abbottabad, Lt-Gen Sharif Chaudhry said that the Pakistan Armed Forces are committed to defending the homeland and that any external aggression will be met with a firm and decisive response.

He said Pakistan has taken effective measures against terrorism and Fitna al-Khawarij.

During the meeting, Lt-Gen Sharif Chaudhry discussed the current security situation, Pakistan-Afghanistan relations and the “Ma’raka-e-Haq”.

Hazara University Vice-Chancellor Dr Ikramullah Khan praised the role of the armed forces and expressed his resolve to stand by them, saying the army’s determination is a symbol of their patriotism.

Dr Ikramullah said that terrorist elements are conspiring to mislead the younger generation and stressed the need to provide “accurate and reliable information” in this situation.

The statement said students and faculty expressed similar views, adding that the meeting with the DG ISPR helped clear misconceptions they had about the army and the national and provincial situation.

On October 21, Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir had said any violation of Pakistan’s territorial integrity would be met with a “firm and decisive” response.