Peshawar, January 14, 2025: Army Chief General Asim Munir met with political leaders from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Monday, emphasizing the need for national unity, swift implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP), and targeted efforts to combat terrorism.
During the detailed discussion, General Munir reaffirmed that Pakistan’s policies are guided solely by national interest. “Our policy is only Pakistan,” he stated.
The army chief described Afghanistan as a “brotherly neighbor” and an Islamic country, reiterating Pakistan’s desire for strong bilateral ties. However, he highlighted the persistent issue of terrorist presence in Afghanistan and their involvement in cross-border attacks into Pakistan. “This difference will remain until the issue is resolved,” he asserted.
Dispelling rumors of large-scale military operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, General Munir clarified that only intelligence-based targeted operations are being carried out to neutralize specific threats. He assured that “Fitna al-Khawarij does not hold influence in any part of Pakistan.”
Acknowledging the importance of introspection, General Munir said, “Humans are prone to error. We all make mistakes, but not admitting them and failing to learn from them is an even bigger mistake.”
The army chief urged all stakeholders to rise above discrimination and prejudice to combat terrorism effectively. “If there is a state, there is politics; without a state, there is nothing,” he emphasized.
He welcomed the consensus among political parties on the National Action Plan, urging its swift implementation to address terrorism and extremism comprehensively.
General Munir also highlighted the deep connection between the people and the military, warning against attempts to create divisions. “The false narrative of a gap between the people and the army is being pushed by a specific foreign agenda,” he cautioned.
Concluding his address, the army chief expressed optimism, saying, “When we work together, the situation will improve soon.” He stressed the importance of unity and collective action to overcome national challenges.
