News
Wednesday, June 08, 2011
‘No compromises made on strategic interests’
QUETTA: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Ashfaq Pervez Kiyani on Tuesday again made it clear that Pakistan has never made any compromise on basic national strategic interests in war against terrorism.
According to military sources, the COAS visited Command and Staff College Quetta on Tuesday where he addressed the student officers in a simple but dignified ceremony. During his address he had to face stiff resistance from students who threw volleys of questions upon him but COAS patiently answered all questions and was of the view that army is fulfilling his responsibilities under the ambit of the constitution.
Regarding the Abbottabad operation, Kayani underlined that military and political leadership have presented their just stance to US and others on the thorny issue. Nothing holds more priority for us other than country’s sovereignty and defence, he underlined. He said that no country can alone fight war against terrorism, adding that Pakistan has sacrificed the most hence to eliminate the menace tooth and nail.
We have gained substantial success in this regard, he noted. Elaborating the concept of comprehensive security, he emphasised the vital requirement of unified national support to the armed forces, without which no force can fulfil the mission of defending a state/nation. He said that people’s support was real strength of the army.
The army is lending a hand to the civil government for establishing law and order in Balochistan, he maintained. Development and prosperity of Balochistan will contribute towards a peaceful and progressive Pakistan. Army would continue to play its part in the security of the country, COAS concluded. online
Courtesy www.dailytimes.com.pk