Chief of Defense Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir on Thursday vowed to defeat the “inimical designs” of hostile forces seeking to obstruct the development of Balochistan, said the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
Interacting with notables and political leadership of the province, the field marshal underscored that the present and future of Balochistan and Pakistan were one and forever. He also highlighted that Balochistan was blessed with talented, resilient, patriotic and proud people, according to the military’s media wing.
He emphasized that a clear national narrative and enduring peace and stability were fundamental to unlocking the province’s true economic potential, attracting investment and translating its abundant human and natural resources into tangible prosperity for its people.
The field marshal stressed there was no dearth of talent or opportunities amongst the youth of Balochistan, who remain the most vibrant and promising segment of society. He emphasized that empowering the youth and providing them opportunities to contribute to national progress remained central to sustainable development.
CDF Munir said that Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan—the state’s terms for the banned TTP and BLA—were foreign-sponsored proxies being employed by hostile elements to destabilize Balochistan, obstruct its development and create a wedge between the state and its people. He reiterated that these inimical designs would be defeated through the collective resolve of the nation and an unwavering, resolute and decisive response by the state.
The Army chief also hailed the role of Baloch society leaders in promoting peace, strengthening social cohesion and advancing a constructive national discourse. He stressed the need to “holistically and without hesitation counter hostile propaganda, expose false narratives and project the true potential, progress and aspirations of Balochistan and its people.”
The destiny of Balochistan, said the field marshal, rested only in the hands of the people of Balochistan.
According to the ISPR, the participants of the meeting reaffirmed their commitment to peace, development and prosperity of Balochistan and Pakistan. They pledged to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the state and armed forces against all foreign-sponsored threats to peace and stability. The province’s leadership expressed their firm resolve to contribute to people-centric development, leading to a peaceful, stable and prosperous Balochistan.