National unity: Only anti-state elements oppose development: Lt-Gen Riaz

QUETTA/ ISLAMABAD: Head of Sothern Command Lt-Gen Aamer Riaz on Sunday said that if all citizens remain united no harm would ever come to Pakistan, adding that only anti-state elements are opposed to national development.

Lt-Gen Riaz was addressing different programmes held in connection with Pakistan Independence Day celebrations.  “Terrorists will be brought to justice ... No one can harm Pakistan’s interests if we remain united to foil nefarious designs of the country’s enemies.”

According to the Commander Southern Command, Pakistan would soon become a major global economic power. “CPEC and several other development projects are being executed in Balochistan and they will greatly benefit the province,” he said. Lt-Gen Aamer  Riaz said that the country’s enemies are trying to “hinder CPEC and our fast growing economy”.

“India … will not be allowed to implement its nefarious designs,” he vowed.

Reminding the audience of the sacrifices rendered by the personnel of security forces, lawyers, journalists and the common man over the past 12 years, he said: “Pakistan Army will continue to play its role as the custodian of the country.”

Published in The Express Tribune, August 15^th, 2016.