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Terrorists' 'backbone broken', says Pakistan army chief

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Islamabad, April 23, IRNA -- Pakistan Army Chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani on Saturday said that security forces have ‘broken the backbone of terrorists’ and the nation will soon prevail over this menace.

Addressing passing out parade of cadets at a military academy in the country’s northwest General Kayani said Pakistan Army is fully aware of internal and external threats to the country and will come upto the expectations of the nation.

Thousands of Pakistani soldiers have been killed in fighting with the militants in the tribal regions and Swat valley in the northwest since the forces launched operations against the militants in the tribal regions in 2003.

Also on Friday, 14 Pakistani soldiers were killed when the armed militants attacked their checkpoint in Dir district in Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa province.

'In the ongoing war against terrorism, our officers and soldiers have made great sacrifices and have achieved tremendous success,' the army chief said.

General Kayani chief said that people of the country value their freedom and independence more than anything else and consider no sacrifice too great to preserve it. He called upon people to remain optimistic and keep the dream of strong and prosperous Pakistan alive.

'I have no doubt that all of us together can achieve it. People have the capacity and will to do it, whatever the difficulties and challenges. Let us revive our promise to make Pakistan a strong country, worthy of its name and the aspiration of its people.'

The Army Chief said they have been chosen for a challenging and honorable profession in one of the finest armies of the world.

'This profession demands strong resolve and conviction. You can reach the zenith of glory by following the high standards of professionalism and valor set by your illustrious predecessors.'

General Kayani took oath from all the cadets that they would not be siding with any political party.

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Islamic Republic News Agency/IRNA NewsCode: 30352141