COAS vows to counter Indian-backed groups in Balochistan

RAWALPINDI: Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir has warned that Pakistan will deliver a strict and decisive response to any direct or indirect violation of its territorial integrity, amid what he described as continued propaganda and violence by Indian-sponsored proxy groups in Balochistan.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Field Marshal Asim Munir was speaking to participants of the 18th National Workshop on Balochistan, who called on him during an interactive session.

Addressing the participants, the Field Marshal said that Indian-backed proxies are actively spreading violence and attempting to disrupt development in Balochistan. He emphasized that the security forces will thwart these nefarious designs through firm and effective actions.

He reiterated that the Pakistan Armed Forces remain fully committed to safeguarding the lives and property of citizens and will continue efforts to rid the province of terrorism and instability.

Highlighting Balochistan’s strategic importance and its role in Pakistan’s future development, Field Marshal Asim Munir praised the resilience and patriotism of the people of Balochistan, calling them a source of national strength. He noted that both federal and provincial governments are pursuing people-centric development projects across the province.

The COAS also underscored the importance of rejecting narrow political agendas to ensure long-term peace and prosperity in Balochistan, adding that civil society and media play a crucial role in exposing hostile propaganda.

ISPR stated that the session concluded with a question-and-answer segment, during which the Field Marshal responded to queries from the workshop participants.