COAS vows to thwart anti-peace forces

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa reiterated on Friday Pakistan's commitment to peace in Afghanistan, stressing constructive engagement and humanitarian support in the neighbouring country.

Gen Bajwa's remarks came as he chaired the 243rd Corps Commanders Conference (CCC) today, the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated.

In a series of tweets from the DG ISPR's official account the military's media wing reported that, "The participants took comprehensive review of global, regional and domestic security environment. Forum was apprised on prevalent situation in Afghanistan, especially security along Pak-Afghan Border and effective safeguards in place against various threats."

The ISPR added that the COAS expressed satisfaction over the efficacy of the comprehensive border management regime due to which Pakistan’s borders and internal security remained intact amid a crisis-like situation in the region.

"The COAS concluded that the designs of external and internal forces inimical to peace and stability in Pakistan shall be thwarted at all costs," the communique said.

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The ISPR added that the, "COAS appreciated Army’s support and role towards the overall evacuation & transit related effort undertaken in support of evacuation of foreign and Afghan populace from Afghanistan to other countries."

Reiterating Pakistan’s firm commitment to peace, the COAS said constructive engagement and sustained humanitarian support for Afghanistan by world community is imperative for enduring peace and stability."

The ISPR added that, "Close cooperation amongst all regional stakeholders is essential for a prosperous and peaceful region."

The CCC participants also paid homage to late Kashmiri leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani for his lifelong struggle and sacrifices as leader of the indigenous Freedom Movement in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK), and expressed solidarity with the Kashmiri people who continue to face Indian state oppression and violence.

"[The] COAS appreciated formations for their efforts for conduct of Muharram in a peaceful manner and instructed complete readiness to counter conventional and non-conventional threats," the ISPR said.