By Qamar Bashir
In a nation where resilience and unity are paramount, the 259th Corps Commanders’ Conference recently convened, bringing together the country’s top military leaders to reaffirm their steadfast commitment to safeguarding national security and advancing economic prosperity. General Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), presided over this crucial gathering, setting the stage for a comprehensive discussion on a range of critical issues.
The conference commenced with a solemn tribute to the supreme sacrifices of Pakistan’s heroes – the Shuhadas. These brave men and women, including officers and men of the Armed Forces, Law Enforcement Agencies, and devoted citizens, laid down their lives to ensure the safety, security, and territorial integrity of our beloved country. Fateha, a heartfelt prayer, was offered in their memory, reiterating Pakistan’s enduring respect and dignity for these fallen heroes. This poignant moment underscored the conference’s first item on the agenda – a poignant reminder of the profound significance of preserving the dignity, honor, and respect of our Shaheeds.
The second major pledge emanating from the conference focused on the unwavering commitment to defend Pakistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity. It emphasized the critical need to thwart inimical propagandists whose desperate attempts seek to sow discord between state institutions and the public. These efforts, indicative of mounting desperation, were recognized for what they are – potential sources of humiliation for those seeking to undermine the nation's unity.
While the conference did not explicitly name these 'inimical propagandists,'
reading between the lines suggests they could be of various backgrounds, including
a few serving and retired army officers and their close relatives. It's worth noting
that the army has already undertaken stringent accountability measures, purging
elements detrimental to the unity between the public and the armed forces.
In addition to internal accountability, state institutions have been actively pursuing
politicians, particularly those affiliated with the PTI, who have sought to create
divisions. Properties have been attached, individuals have been declared
proclaimed offenders, and legal actions have been initiated against those
responsible. This conference sent a clear message that such pursuits will continue,
and those involved can anticipate further repercussions.
The conference also delivered a stern warning to those unscrupulous elements
propagating relentless, false, and fabricated narratives against the armed forces.
Through various media outlets, both conventional and social, these elements have
sought to tarnish the reputation of Pakistan's armed forces. The conference
unequivocally asserted that such actions will not go unpunished. It was a
resounding message to the propagandists: desist from creating divisions between
the public and the armed forces, or be prepared to face the consequences.
The third agenda item tackled the pressing issue of countering terrorism,
particularly threats emanating from Afghanistan, specifically from Tehrik-e-
Taliban Pakistan (TTP). This terrorist organization, known for its ruthless tactics
and anti-government stance, has found sanctuary across the border in Afghanistan.
It continues to launch lethal attacks on Pakistan's security forces and innocent
citizens with impunity.
Despite this provocation, Pakistan's security forces have displayed considerable
restraint due to strategic considerations, seeking to avoid an escalation of hostility
with the Afghan government. However, the conference made it abundantly clear
that this restraint should not be misconstrued as weakness.
The security forces pledged to counter the terrorist threat comprehensively. This
includes launching relentless intelligence-based operations to eliminate TTP's
sleeper cells, abettors, and facilitators within Pakistan. Additionally, border
vigilance along the 2,500-kilometer-long porous borders will be strengthened, and
rapid security force units will be deployed to neutralize threats swiftly. The
conference also emphasized the importance of safeguarding strategic national and
public assets.
The conference recognized that addressing the TTP menace requires a two-
pronged approach. First, kinetic power must be employed to counter immediate
threats. Second, a long-term strategy is essential, involving education, job
opportunities, and socioeconomic development in areas vulnerable to TTP
recruitment.
Negotiation attempts have proved futile, leading to a clear understanding that
decisive action is necessary. Pakistan's armed forces are spearheading efforts to
prevent violent extremism by empowering local communities and their partners at
the grassroots level. This approach includes sharing information about the threat of
radicalization, strengthening cooperation with local law enforcement agencies, and
helping communities protect themselves against extremist propaganda, particularly
online.
The conference between the lines emphasized that countering TTP's hateful
ideology is not solely the government's responsibility. Local communities, with
their intimate knowledge of their regions, are best positioned to lead these efforts.
It was heartening to note that people in former FATA, KP province, and northern
areas have consistently condemned terrorism, collaborated with law enforcement
to prevent terrorist attacks, and developed innovative programs to shield their
loved ones from TTP's deadly ideology.
Additionally, the government and law enforcement agencies are actively building
expertise to prevent violent extremism. This involves ongoing research and
analysis to identify, predict, and preempt new developments. It also entails close
collaboration with individuals, communities, and officials on the frontlines, all
working tirelessly to counter the threats that Pakistan faces.
Countering violent extremist propaganda and promoting inclusive ideals is a top
priority. Efforts must actively challenge the ideologies employed by violent
extremists to radicalize and recruit individuals. By confronting justifications for
violence and promoting a unifying and inclusive vision of Pakistan's ideals, we can
reduce the allure of extremist ideologies.
The conference, mindful of the prevailing geo-strategic environment and the
evolving threats to national security, rightly asserted that terrorists, their
facilitators, and abettors, acting at the behest of hostile forces seeking to destabilize
Pakistan, will face the full might of the state. This clear policy statement was
eagerly awaited by the nation, underscoring the importance of resolute action.
In light of the substantial threats facing Pakistan, it is now a national duty and
responsibility for every Pakistani to stand united. Whether as individuals or as a
society, we must stand shoulder to shoulder with our Army Chief and the brave
and professional armed forces. We must provide unwavering support – intellectual,
ideological, moral, and material – without doubt or unwarranted criticism.
The threat of terrorism cannot be left solely to the armed forces to handle. It is a
collective responsibility of the entire nation to support them unconditionally and
holistically. By standing together, we can strengthen our resolve to combat
terrorism and ensure the safety and security of our beloved Pakistan.
The fourth and equally vital pledge made during the conference was to continue
wholehearted support for ongoing efforts aimed at uplifting socioeconomic growth.
These efforts are channeled through the Special Investment Facilitation Council
(SIFC), which encompasses various sectors, including IT, agriculture, minerals,
and defense production.
Under the leadership of the Army Chief, concrete actions have been taken to
translate these commitments into reality. A nationwide crackdown on hundi and
hawala dealers, illegal money exchangers, and strict rules for formal currency
exchange operations have been implemented. This crackdown immediately
stabilized the market, leading to a significant drop in the value of the dollar and
gold.
