ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, asserted that terrorism is a tactic employed by India, not a trait of Pakistan itself. Addressing the National Scholars and Religious Leaders Conference in Islamabad, he emphasized Pakistan’s approach of confronting enemies openly rather than secretly.
He underscored the strong historical and spiritual bond between Pakistan and the City of Madinah, stating that Allah has bestowed Pakistan with the honor of being a guardian of the Holy Mosques among Muslim nations. He also described the defense pact with Saudi Arabia as a significant and historic achievement.
The military leader warned that nations that neglect knowledge and education become vulnerable to chaos and instability. He stressed that true honor and strength come from diligent effort and acquiring knowledge, not from division and discord.
Reiterating his stance on terrorism, Field Marshal Munir said that such acts are a part of India’s wider strategy, and that Pakistan faces its enemies directly and courageously. “We do not fight in the shadows; we confront them openly,” he declared. He expressed optimism that, with Allah’s help, Pakistan has achieved success in its fight for justice and truth.
He also emphasized that only the state, not individuals or groups, has the authority to declare jihad in an Islamic nation. Calling on scholars to unite the nation and promote inclusiveness, he concluded with patriotic fervor: “Long live Pakistan.”
