ISLAMABAD: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir Wednesday said it was the state’s responsibility to protect its people from the adverse effects of the ‘Fitna’ of social media.
He was addressing the final day’s proceedings of the Pakistan National Youth Convention 2024 here. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also delivered his keynote address.
“Where have gone those who built the narrative that Pakistan was going to default?” the COAS asked.
He said the strong bond between the people, the government and army guaranteed Pakistan’s safety and progress.
Addressing the youth, he said one should ask the importance of an independent state from the people of Libya, Syria, Kashmir and Gaza.The army chief said Pakistan’s future was in safe hands adding that a strong bond between the nation, the government and the army guaranteed country’s prosperity.
He emphasized the need for a holistic youth development, encompassing engagement, education, and entertainment.“Youth is the most important and expensive asset to Pakistan and we will not let anyone waste it at any cost. I can see in their bright eyes that Pakistan’s future is in safe hands,” said the army chief.
Telling the youth that life was tests and trials, he said Islam forbade Muslims from disappointment. It is knowledge that distinguishes a person from others, he added.He also quoted verses from the Holy Quran and Allama Iqbal’s poetry about the youth.
General Asim reiterated that it was his firm belief that the country would defeat terrorism. He said the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had been standing with the army against terrorism for the last 22 years.He maintained that it was his strong faith that Allah Almighty will help Pakistan win its war against terrorism.
He particularly highlighted the need for skill development among the youth through enhanced educational and vocational training. The army chief emphasized the significance of faith, unity, and discipline as the foundational pillars for shaping the youth’s future, while also underscoring the importance of character, courage and competence as essential attributes for their development.
Answering a question about clashes in Parachinar during the question & answer session, the COAS asked the tribes to sit together and settle their disputes.
