RAWALPINDI: The 277th Corps Commanders Conference, chaired by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, has said that targeted actions against terrorism originating from Afghanistan are Pakistan’s legitimate right to self-defence.
The conference was held at Army Headquarters in Rawalpindi on October 2, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The participants offered Fateha for members of the armed forces, law enforcement agencies and civilians who lost their lives defending the country and paid tribute to their sacrifices.
The forum expressed concern over terrorism emanating from Afghanistan and held the Taliban leadership responsible for what it described as the serious consequences of terrorism allegedly being carried out as an instrument of India.
The commanders praised the continued intelligence-based counterterrorism operations conducted by law enforcement agencies and stressed that military and ground operations must be supported by effective administrative and governance measures.
The conference said governance needs to be brought closer to citizens at the grassroots level to help address the causes of terrorism. It also called for stronger public communication regarding the causes and mechanisms of terrorism.
According to the statement, breaking the “crime-terror nexus” operating under the patronage of certain elements is essential to eliminating terrorism. The forum also stressed the need to enhance the operational capacity of the police.
The commanders said internal stability remains critically important for Pakistan and warned that any attempt to create violent disorder or circumstances similar to the May 9 events would be dealt with decisively and without discrimination under the law.
The conference also welcomed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, describing it as an important development for strengthening longstanding strategic relations and defence cooperation.
The participants strongly condemned Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia and expressed solidarity with the Kingdom. They also reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to protecting the sanctity and security of the holy sites in Saudi Arabia.
On Kashmir, the conference reiterated that the dispute should be resolved in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
Field Marshal Asim Munir directed formations to continue strengthening intelligence-based operations and enhance their defence capabilities through the acquisition of modern technology, improved training and integration across all domains of warfare.
He said Pakistan’s armed forces, backed by the nation’s unwavering support, remain fully prepared to protect the country’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national security.
