Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir has said that the way Pakistan Army has been playing its role in national building, it will support the recently launched economic recovery plan by the government focusing on corporate farming (agriculture and livestock), mines and minerals, and information technology.
In his message on the occasion of Defence Day, the army chief said: "We are cognizant of the fact that a strong economy is vital for a strong defence. With the blessings of Allah and through mutual cooperation, Pakistan is poised to realize the aspiration of self-reliance through the path of economic progress."
He further said that in the face of ever-mounting challenges and a volatile security environment, the Pakistan Army reaffirms its commitment to remain steadfast.
"We must bear in mind that the Pakistan Army represents the linchpin of the hopes and aspirations of the people of Pakistan. We pledge to uphold this relationship of mutual trust above all else," he added.
The army chief said that above all linguistic, regional, and sectarian prejudices, the Pakistan Army has consistently embodied the ideals of 'Unity, Faith, and Discipline'. Guided by these enduring principles, the Pakistan Army has set new benchmarks in its unrelenting fight against the scourge of terrorism, he added.
The Pakistan Army, Gen Munir said, holds a distinctive position among the contemporary armies, distinguished by its exceptional professional standards and discipline.
"Armed with state-of-the-art weaponry, rigorously honed combat skills, and a commitment to professionalism, the Pakistan Army stands prepared to respond fittingly to any challenge or aggression," he said in the statement.
The hallmark of Pakistan Army is a constant commitment to prioritize the defense of the Motherland above all else, even at the cost of one's own life.
"We must always bear in mind that the torch of freedom has been ignited by the blood of martyrs, and their sanctity and reverence stands paramount. The capacity of our nation and Armed Forces to unite in times of trial is an invaluable quality and, for us, an essential facet of our national defense and security," the army chief said.
He further said that recently, certain misguided elements attempted to sow discord and erode the trust that binds the Pakistani nation to its armed forces. "These nefarious endeavors, however, were thwarted through the restraint demonstrated by our armed forces," he insisted.
