Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

Pakistan army chief vows to defeat terror, militancy

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Islamabad, April 25, -- Pakistan’s Army Chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani Friday vowed to defeat terror and militancy in the country.

Speaking to top army generals, the army chief declared that Army’s rank and file has resolve to fight to eliminate the militants, who endanger the lives of peaceful citizens of the Country and challenge the writ of the State, an army statement said.

The statement coincides with reports that Taliban militants have moved to other areas from the restive Swat valley in the northwest.

General Kayani reassured the people of Pakistan that with their support, Army is determined to root out the menace of terrorism from the society.

“It will not allow the militants to dictate terms to the Government or impose their way of life on the civil society of Pakistan,” he said while presiding over an operational meeting at the General Headquarters, Rawalpindi.

He condemned pronouncements by outside powers raising doubts on the future of the Country, according to the statement.

A Country of 170 M resilient people under a democratic dispensation, strongly supported by the Army, is capable of handling any crisis that it may confront, he said.

General Kayani stated that the victory against the terror and militancy will be achieved at all cost. He praised the rank and file for continuing to fight under challenging and arduous conditions.

The army chief stated that operational pause, meant to give the reconciliatory forces a chance, must not be taken for a concession to the militants.

While addressing the participants he said that he was aware of the doubts being voiced about the intent as well as the capability of the Army to defeat the militancy in the Country.

He made it clear that Pakistan Army never has and never will hesitate to sacrifice, whatever it may take, to ensure safety and well being of people of Pakistan and Country’s territorial integrity.

Praying for the souls of those killed of Armed forces, Civilian Law Enforcement Agencies and civilians, the army chief assured the bereaved families and the Nation that the debt of their sacred blood will be paid back by the Army, and safety of the people and the Country ensured at all costs.
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End News / IRNA / News Code 451879