ISLAMABAD: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir on Wednesday asked the security forces of Pakistan to concentrate on their professional responsibilities while acknowledging the role played by their sacrifices in the development of the country as he spent Eid Al-Fitr with troops in North Waziristan district.
The area was once considered a hub of militancy due to Pakistan’s porous border with Afghanistan, especially during the time US-led international forces were present in Kabul. The region served as a safe haven for various militant groups, including the Taliban and Al-Qaeda, due to the challenging terrain and lack of effective border controls.
Subsequently, Pakistan initiated efforts to fortify its border by launching a major fencing project in 2017, aiming to control illegal movement between the two countries and reduce violence by armed militants.
Despite such attempts to restore peace in the area, North Waziristan and other parts of the northwestern tribal belt have witnessed a resurgence of militant violence once again. Factors contributing to this resurgence include the complex dynamics of regional politics, the presence of various militant factions and the influence of the Taliban control in Afghanistan.
“Maintain unwavering focus on your professional duties in service to the nation,” the army chief told the troops after receiving a detailed briefing on the security landscape during his visit to Miran Shah and Spinwam in North Waziristan.
According to a statement released by the military’s media wing, ISPR, he said the sacrifices of the troops had create an environment of socioeconomic development in the country.
“Emphasizing the adverse impact of terrorism upon development, COAS underscored the collective imperative to safeguard the hard-earned peace,” the statement added. “He urged all stakeholders, especially the local populace, to remain vigilant against adversarial elements seeking to destabilize the region.”
Pakistani security forces have been actively carrying out intelligence-based operations amid the recent surge of violence along the countries Western border with Afghanistan and Iran.
These operations are focused on dismantling militant networks, preventing their violent activities and ensuring the security of the area.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also extended Eid greetings to the leaders and soldiers of the Pakistani armed forces on Wednesday.
“The entire nation, including myself, pays tribute to the young soldiers stationed at the borders protecting our homeland,” he said. “On the occasion of Eid Al-Fitr, the entire nation pays homage to our martyrs and offers tribute to their families.”