Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir has said that the nation’s forefathers made countless sacrifices for the country’s creation and the military stands fully prepared to defend it.
Speaking at a passing out parade ceremony at the Pakistan Military Academy in Kakul, General Munir emphasised that Muslims are distinct from Hindus in all aspects of life — religion, customs, traditions, thinking, and aspirations.
“The two-nation theory was based on the fundamental belief that Muslims and Hindus are two separate nations, not one,” the army chief said.
He added that Pakistan’s existence is the result of an unparalleled struggle and sacrifices, and it remains the military’s duty to safeguard it.
“Our forefathers gave immense sacrifices for the creation of Pakistan. We know how to defend it,” he said.
Earlier addressing the event, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had said Pakistan is open to participating in a “neutral, transparent and credible” investigation into the Pahalgam attack, amid rising tensions with India.
PM Shehbaz condemned India’s “perpetual blame game” and called for an end to accusations without credible investigations.
“The recent tragedy in Pahalgam is yet another example of this pattern,” he said. “Continuing with its role as a responsible country, Pakistan is open to any neutral, transparent and credible investigation.”
He criticised India for levelling “baseless allegations” against Pakistan without verifiable evidence, and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to supporting Kashmiris’ right to self-determination, calling Kashmir the “jugular vein” of Pakistan.
Addressing concerns over India’s recent suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty following the Pahalgam attack, Shehbaz warned that any attempt to block or divert Pakistan’s share of water would provoke a full-force response. He described water as Pakistan’s lifeline and a vital national interest.
Shehbaz also highlighted Pakistan’s sacrifices in the global fight against terrorism, noting over 90,000 casualties and $600 billion in economic losses.
