'Fitna al-Khawarij has become a hub for global terror organisations and proxies': COAS

Gen Asim Munir says violent non-state actors and state-backed terrorism have become global challenges

Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir has stated that the "Fitna al-Khawarij" has become a hub for all global terrorist organisations and proxies.

Speaking at the special session of the Margalla Dialogue 2024 in the federal capital Islamabad, Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir addressed the topic, "Pakistan's Role in Peace and Stability," highlighting Pakistan's significant achievements in promoting regional harmony and international peace, Express News reported.

The special session of the Margalla Dialogue 2024 was organised by the Islamabad Policy Research Institute (IPRI), during which the Army Chief noted that in recent years, the world has faced several challenges, including the rapid spread of false and misleading information. He also pointed out that, amidst various global changes, the growing influence of non-state actors is another significant challenge.

He noted that tremendous changes are occurring globally in the economy, military, and technology. Violent non-state actors and state-sponsored terrorism have become significant global challenges.

While technology has played a crucial role in spreading information, it has also contributed to the spread of misleading and false information, which has become a serious issue, the army chief added.

He also stated that without comprehensive laws and regulations, misinformation and hateful statements will continue to destabilise the political and social structure.

Freedom of expression without rules and regulations is leading to the erosion of moral values in all societies Gen Munir said adding that, globally, inequality, intolerance, and divisions are increasing on religious, sectarian, and ethnic grounds

Speaking at the event, General Syed Asim Munir shared that 'our shared objectives include tackling climate change, combating terrorism, and addressing global health challenges. Pakistan is playing a vital role in promoting peace and stability both regionally and globally. Terrorism is a common challenge for all humanity worldwide, and our resolve in the fight against terrorism remains unwavering.'

Discussing the border situation, he stated that a comprehensive border management regime has been implemented to secure our western borders.

"The menace of the Khawarij has become a hub for all terrorist organisations and proxies around the world. Pakistan expects the Afghan interim government to prevent the use of Afghan soil by terrorists and to take strict measures in this regard," he added.

The purpose of Operation Radd-ul-Fasaad is to eliminate terrorism and extremism.

The Chief of Army Staff stated that Radd-ul-Fasaad is an essential part of the National Action Plan, aimed at eradicating terrorism and extremism.

'Due to India's extremist ideology, minorities are unsafe abroad, particularly in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. New Delhi's brutality in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir is also a continuation of its Hindutva ideology and policies,' he further added.

Pakistan has always supported a free Palestinian state.

General Asim Munir emphasised that resolving the Kashmir issue according to United Nations resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people is essential.

He also highlighted that Pakistan has consistently called for a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon and has provided humanitarian aid to Gaza and Lebanon multiple times.

'Pakistan has always advocated for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state,' the army chief added.

The army chief affirmed that Pakistan will not participate in any global conflict but will continue contributing to global peace and stability.

He also highlighted that in the interest of international peace, 235,000 Pakistanis have served in United Nations peacekeeping missions, while 181 Pakistanis have laid down their lives for global peace under these missions.

General Syed Asim Munir further noted that Pakistan is a nation of 240 million people, with nearly 63% of its population under the age of 30 and that the country is blessed with immense natural resources and has emerged as a leading agricultural producer globally. The country also holds large deposits of rare minerals and plays a significant role internationally in freelancing.

He added that due to its rich resources, unique geographical location, and seaports, Pakistan is strategically crucial for trade with Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East. The Army Chief affirmed that Pakistan will always contribute positively to regional and global peace.