No compromise on national sovereignty, says Field Marshal Asim Munir

RAWALPINDI (Dunya News) – Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir said the Pakistan Army is fully prepared to counter conventional, non-conventional, and hybrid threats.

In a special message to the nation on the occasion of Pakistan's 78th Independence Day, he extended heartfelt congratulations to all Pakistanis and paid tribute to the elders and the Muslims of the subcontinent who sacrificed for the beloved homeland.

He stated that Pakistan is not only a strong and invincible state but also a shining example of interfaith harmony and religious freedom, where religious minorities continue to play a vital role in the country’s development.

Field Marshal Asim Munir emphasised that Pakistan has made immense sacrifices, both in terms of lives and finances, to defeat the menace of terrorism.

Referring to the Pulwama incident, he said Pakistan not only strongly condemned it but also offered transparent international investigations.

He further stated that the Indian government, exhibiting its traditional stubbornness, targeted Pakistan’s civilian population. However, with the full support of the nation, the armed forces gave a fitting response to Indian aggression through Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, which has now become a symbol of the courage and spirited resolve of Pakistan’s military.

COAS made it clear that the Pakistan Army is fully equipped to handle conventional, non-conventional, and hybrid threats. “We desire peace, development, and prosperity in the region, but we will never compromise on our freedom and sovereignty. Any misadventure threatening national integrity will be responded to immediately and decisively,” he asserted.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s stance, he said the country will continue to fully support the struggle of the oppressed people of Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. "Granting Kashmiris their right to self-determination is the only fair, just, and lasting solution," he said.

The field marshal reiterated that Pakistan stands firmly with the oppressed people of Palestine and called upon the international community to take immediate steps for the protection of Palestinian rights.

Paying tribute to all the martyrs of the freedom movement, he said their courage, bravery, and unwavering faith remain a guiding light for the nation.

He concluded by expressing full confidence in the professional capabilities and combat readiness of the Pakistan Army, saying: "We will not hesitate to make any sacrifice for the defense of our homeland and will dedicate all our energies to the stability and development of Pakistan."