Islamabad: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir on Tuesday reiterated Pakistan’s determination to uproot terrorist networks and foreign-backed elements sowing unrest in Balochistan, vowing a strong and decisive response to any threat against the country’s sovereignty.
Addressing participants of the 17th National Workshop Balochistan at the General Headquarters (GHQ), the army chief said that India-sponsored proxies, including Fitna al-Hindustan and Fitna al-Khawarij, were actively promoting anti-people and anti-development agendas aimed at destabilizing the province.
“All necessary actions are being taken to pursue these terrorists and rid Balochistan of this menace,” Field Marshal Munir said, emphasizing that the people of Balochistan are the “true pride and strength of Pakistan.”
He lauded the province’s resilient and patriotic citizens, describing them as central to the country’s unity and progress. Munir also commended both the federal and provincial governments for their development-focused initiatives, which he said are designed to transform Balochistan’s socio-economic landscape through inclusive growth and people-centric policies.
The COAS highlighted the vital role of civil society, particularly youth engagement, in fostering peace and countering divisive narratives. Empowering the young generation, he added, is essential for ensuring long-term prosperity and preventing exploitation by hostile forces.
“Pakistan desires peace and stability in the region,” he stressed, “but any violation of its territorial integrity — direct or indirect — will be met with a firm and resolute response.”
The workshop concluded with a candid Q&A session, during which participants discussed national security challenges, regional dynamics, and pathways to sustainable development in Balochistan.
According to the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), Balochistan continues to face a high proportion of violence in Pakistan, accounting for nearly 25% of the total fatalities and 85 incidents in recent months. The province, along with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, remains a primary target of cross-border terrorism due to its porous border with Afghanistan.
During his previous visits to the province, Field Marshal Munir emphasized joint civil-military collaboration as key to addressing socio-economic and security challenges — a message he reaffirmed during Tuesday’s address.
