ISLAMABAD: Chief of Army Staff Gen Syed Asim Munir has warned that the “Fitna-tul-Khawarij” — a term used for the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan — has become a breeding ground for global terrorist networks and proxies.
Addressing the Margalla Dialogue 2024 in the federal capital, Gen Munir spoke on Pakistan’s pivotal role in fostering peace and stability.
The event was organised by the Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI).
The army chief reflected on regional cooperation and global harmony amidst evolving global challenges.
He underscored the rapid dissemination of misinformation as one of the most significant contemporary challenges.
“The unchecked spread of false and misleading information is destabilising political and social structures worldwide,” he said adding that the influence of non-state actors has grown amid global transitions in technology, economy, and geopolitics.
Freedom Without Regulation Erodes Moral Values
Highlighting the dual impact of technology, the army chief acknowledged its role in facilitating communication while cautioning against its misuse.
“Without comprehensive regulations, the spread of disinformation and hate speech will continue to undermine societies,” he said.
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“Unregulated freedom of expression is eroding moral values and exacerbating divisions based on religion, sect, and ethnicity.”
Unwavering Commitment to Combating Terrorism
Gen Asim Munir reiterated Pakistan’s steadfast resolve to combat terrorism, describing it as a shared global challenge. He emphasized Pakistan’s expectations from Afghanistan’s interim government to ensure that Afghan soil is not used as a launchpad for terrorist activities.
“A robust border management regime has been implemented to secure our western frontiers,” he said.
He also highlighted the role of the “Azm-e-Istahkam” campaign, a critical component of Pakistan’s National Action Plan, aimed at eradicating terrorism and extremism.
Concerns Over Hindutva and Regional Peace
Shifting focus to India, General Munir criticised the rise of Hindutva ideology, asserting that it threatens minorities even in Western countries like the US, the UK, and Canada. “India’s oppressive policies in occupied Jammu and Kashmir reflect its ideological continuity,” he said, calling for a resolution of the Kashmir dispute in line with UN resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
Pakistan’s Commitment to Palestine
Reaffirming solidarity with Palestinians, the Army Chief stated, “Pakistan has consistently supported the creation of an independent Palestinian state and called for ceasefires in Gaza and Lebanon.” He highlighted the humanitarian aid Pakistan has provided to the region.
Contributions to Global Peace
Gen Asim Munir emphasised Pakistan’s contributions to UN peacekeeping missions, noting that over 235,000 Pakistani personnel have served, with 181 sacrificing their lives. “We will not align with any global conflict but will continue to play a constructive role in maintaining peace,” he declared.
Youth and Resources: Pakistan’s Strengths
He expressed optimism about Pakistan’s future, citing the country’s youthful population — 63 per cent under the age of 30 — and its abundant natural resources. He highlighted Pakistan’s emerging role as a major player in agriculture, freelancing, and mineral production.
“Pakistan’s strategic location, connecting Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East, makes it integral to regional trade and economic activity,” he said pledging that Pakistan would persist in its efforts to promote regional and global stability.