Uplift, defence needs: Kayani calls for striking a ‘right balance’

Statement hint at establishment’s wariness of defence spending scrutny.

ISLAMABAD:

Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani has called for striking the ‘right balance’ between the requirements of development and defence for ‘meaningful and sustainable progress’.

Speaking to the participants of the Command and Staff Course in Quetta, Gen Kayani stressed that the military needed public support to function effectively.

“No army operates in a vacuum, rather it draws upon the support of the nation to conduct their task in a manner that contributes to the fulfillment of national policies, interests and aspirations,” he remarked. His statement came just days before the historic transfer of power between one civilian government and another is set to conclude.

The incoming Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz government has already made it clear that it will ensure civilian supremacy in all matters. The army chief’s statement appears to suggest that the country’s powerful establishment may fear the PML-N government’s plans to scrutinise defence spending.



Gen Kayani also said the army should always be prepared to fulfill its responsibility. The army chief emphasised the need to serve the nation with professionalism, dedication and commitment.

“It is the duty of the armed forces to maintain adequate capabilities and readiness to fulfill the tasks assigned,” he added.

Earlier, upon his arrival in Quetta, Gen Kayani was received by Quetta Corps Commander Lt Gen Muhammad Alam Khattak.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 1^st, 2013.