ISLAMABAD: General Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff (COAS) met President Asif Ali Zardari at the Presidential Palace. The COAS congratulated the President of Pakistan and the Chief of the Armed Forces on his appointment and expressed his sincere hope for a successful tenure.
The COAS briefed the President on the Army’s counter-terrorism operations and demonstrated operational readiness against conventional threats. The COAS also briefed on the Army’s contribution to development initiatives, particularly in the Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa regions.
The President acknowledged the exemplary role of the Pakistan Armed Forces and emphasized that the contribution of the Army has played an important role in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He appreciated the efforts of the army for the social upliftment of the affected areas and emphasized the unwavering commitment of the Pakistan Army to national development. The President affirmed Pakistan’s unwavering resolve against terrorism and reiterated the country’s resolve to respond with full force with all elements of its national forces.
The President expressed serious concern about the baseless and baseless accusations leveled by certain political parties and some individuals against the establishment and leadership for narrow political gains and decided to deal with such disturbing elements with an iron hand.
The President paid tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the nation, saying that their blood will always symbolize the resilience and strength of the people of Pakistan. He reiterated the nation’s firm commitment to honor the sacrifices of the martyrs and their families and accord them the highest respect.
