COAS says minorities equal citizens of country

KARACHI:

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Friday said that monitories in Pakistan are equal citizens and it is the job of the state to protect them, the military said in a statement.

According to the InterServices Public Relations (ISPR), the army chief expressed these remarks during a visit to Nagarparkar, Sindh's Tharparker district, where he spent the day with troops and was also briefed by the local commander on operational readiness of the formation.

While interacting with troops, the ISPR said, General Qamar appreciated their state of morale and motivation for fulfilment of the assigned mission. He also advised all troops to remain focused on their professional obligations and training for an effective response to counter any emerging challenge. Later on, according to the statement, the COAS also met the local Hindu community.

They acknowledged Pakistan's efforts in bringing about a secure environment for minorities in the country. They pledged that the community will contribute with full zeal towards the economic prosperity of the country. Commander Karachi Corps and Director General Pakistan Rangers (Sindh) also accompanied the army chief during the visit, the ISPR further said.