- Web Desk
- 26 Minutes ago
TTP main hurdle between Pak-Afghan relations: army chief
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- Web Desk
- Jan 14, 2025
RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir has said that Pakistan has always sought good relations with Afghanistan but differences will persist until “the neighbouring country” cracks down on the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, and halts cross-border attacks. “This difference will remain until they address the issue.”
According to media reports, the army chief made these remarks during a meeting with leaders of different political parties in Peshawar on Monday.
The COAS separately interacted with politicians of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa belonging to different political parties, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.
It added that the participants resolved consensus on the need for one political voice and public support against the scourge of terrorism.
The military’s media wing reported that the political representatives showed vivid clarity on unflinching support of the Armed Forces and LEAs in nation’s fight against terror and agreed on the need for a unified front beyond political colours against the extremist philosophy of terrorist groups.
On the occasion, the army chief said that Pakistan’s policy is solely focused on national interests and called for unity in the fight against terrorism.
Dismissing reports of a large-scale military operation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, General Munir clarified that only intelligence-based targeted actions are being carried out.
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He urged all political forces to stand united against terrorism, emphasizing that national stability is crucial for political progress. “There is no politics without the state, and if, God forbid, the state ceases to exist, nothing else will matter,” he said.
The army chief underscored the deep bond between the people and the military, rejecting narratives aimed at creating divisions. He said such misleading propaganda was part of a foreign agenda.
General Munir welcomed the political consensus on the National Action Plan and stressed the need for its swift implementation. “If we move forward together, the situation will improve soon,” he assured.
He also spoke about the importance of learning from past mistakes, saying, “Humans are prone to errors, but refusing to acknowledge them and failing to learn from them is an even bigger mistake.”
According to the ISPR statement, the COAS – during his Peshawar visit – was also provided with a comprehensive briefing on the prevailing security situation and the ongoing counter-terrorism operations targeting Fitna Al Khwarij.
He praised the unwavering resolve and unmatched sacrifices of Pakistan Armed Forces and law enforcement agencies, who have been instrumental in dismantling terrorist networks and thwarting their nefarious agenda.
The army chief said: “As we stand united against the forces of evil, I am immensely proud of the remarkable achievements of our security forces. Through their dedication, courage, and supreme sacrifices, we have successfully degraded the operational capabilities of terrorist organizations, both within our borders and beyond.
“Our forces have relentlessly pursued and eliminated key terrorist leaders, dismantled their infrastructure, and neutralized their cells, sending a clear message that terror has no place in our land. This war is ongoing and we would take it to its logical conclusion, InshAllah.”
The COAS further emphasised the relentless efforts of law enforcement agencies in ensuring the safety and security of citizens, foiling numerous attacks, and maintaining peace and order.
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He highlighted that every operation has been a testament to the courage, professionalism, and operational readiness of the security forces, who continue to thwart the evolving threats posed by terrorists.
The COAS made it clear that any attempt to disturb the peace of the nation will be met with decisive and overwhelming force. “The enemy may try to sow discord and fear, but we will not relent. Hostile elements will be dealt with an iron hand. They will continue to suffer heavy losses, and their capacity to inflict harm will be decimated.”
The COAS also lauded the exceptional morale of the troops, who remain steadfast in their commitment to safeguard the sovereignty of the nation.
He affirmed that the Pakistan Armed Forces and law enforcement agencies stand as an unbreakable force, resolute in their mission to protect the motherland and its people.