According to Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif, director of DG ISPR, there are no doubts from the Pakistan army’s side about supporting the right to self-determination of Kashmiris. He said again that the army’s stance over the May 9 incident is unchanged.
Press Conference Highlights
General Sharif, while addressing a press conference on Kashmir Exploitation Day, stressed that the Pakistani military stands by the brave people of occupied Kashmir in their quest for self-rule. He declared India’s lockdown in Kashmir, demographic changes and human rights violations as violations of international law.
Counter-Terrorism Operations and Martyrs
One hundred thirty-nine brave officers and soldiers were martyred during counter-terrorism operations during the first seven months of 2024. The entire nation pays tribute to these heroes and their families. This dedication shows that the Pakistan Army, law enforcement agencies, and intelligence services fully concentrate on ensuring national and border security.
Continuous Fight Against Terrorism
“Fight against terrorism will persist until the last terrorist along with its affiliates is eliminated,” stated General Sharif.
The army specializes in areas that have merged with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa but have impacted some parts of Balochistan. Some welfare projects have also been initiated or completed in Azad Jammu & Kashmir Gilgit-Baltistan.
Educational Initiatives
National development hinges on education. In this regard, much has been done to provide educational resources, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan; for this purpose, schools, cadet colleges, and technical institutes were established, which benefitted approximately 80000 children, including the Chief of Army Staff Youth Employment Scheme Education for All, which has more than 746000 enrolled students.
Balochistan Educational Projects
In Balochistan, Federal-Provincial Cooperation established 160 schools, colleges, and universities, including 12 cadet colleges and universities, which benefited 60000 students. The Comprehensive Scholarships Program supported over eight thousand students, while Frontier Corps FC Pakistan Army ran ninety-two schools for nineteen thousand students. UAE universities produced two hundred fifty-three higher educational graduates among them.
Counter Terrorism Ops Continues
This year, twenty-three thousand six hundred and twenty-two intelligence-based operations against terrorists have been conducted. Outlawed TTP will now be called Fitna Khawarij. In these operations, only within the last fifteen days twenty-four terrorists have been killed.
Commitment to Merit and National Development
The Pakistan Army is a merit-based institution serving national interests. Soldiers’ sacrifices date back to 1947, credited to the bravery of their families. Despite criticism, the army remains apolitical and focused on national welfare.
Addressing Smuggling and Illegal Trade
Efforts are underway to curb illegal trade, especially along the Iranian border, where fundamental facilities and employment are scarce. The army aims to end smuggling, though complete border security is challenging. Any involvement in fake news will be dealt with strictly.
Combatting Digital Terrorism
General Sharif emphasized that digital terrorism is controlled by law. The army will act against anyone involved in spreading fake news. He condemned foreign-sponsored propaganda and highlighted ongoing efforts to destabilize Pakistan.
Support for Gaza and Kashmir
Highlighting the exploitation of children in Gaza and Kashmir, General Sharif pointed out that those funding anti-Pakistan narratives remain silent on these atrocities. He urged awareness of the external influences undermining Pakistan.
Ensuring National Security
The army remains committed to maintaining state authority and countering external threats. Peaceful protests are welcome, but blocking roads and causing public inconvenience will not be tolerated. Law enforcement restrained during recent demonstrations in Gwadar, demonstrating their commitment to national stability.
