Kakul:On Pakistan’s Independence Day, Army Chief General Asim Munir delivered a powerful address during the Independence Day parade at the Pakistan Military Academy Kakul. He emphasized that the nation is prepared to respond swiftly and decisively to any form of aggression, whether traditional or non-traditional, dynamic or proactive.
**National Pride and Tribute**
The Independence Day celebrations at Kakul featured a drill parade by cadets, who demonstrated their skills and paid tribute to the nation’s martyrs. The event began with a recording of a speech by Pakistan’s founder, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. General Asim Munir received a general salute, and a spectacular fireworks display lit up the night sky.
**Strong Resolve and Commitment**
In his speech, General Munir congratulated the nation and reiterated the importance of Pakistan’s founding ideology, based on the Two-Nation Theory, which provided Muslims of the subcontinent with a separate identity and culture. He praised the sacrifices of leaders, workers, and martyrs, stating that the nation’s freedom is a result of their immense sacrifices.
General Munir stressed that historically, the nation has emerged stronger from every challenge, thanks to the mutual trust between the people and the armed forces. He warned that discord and division could undermine national integrity and pave the way for external threats.
**National Security and Resilience**
The Army Chief highlighted the invaluable trust the nation has in its military and assured that no negative force could weaken this bond. He reaffirmed the armed forces’ commitment to defending the country against both internal and external threats and ensuring that their sacrifices are never in vain. He emphasized that Pakistan’s position in the region and the international community is of great significance due to its natural resources, resilient people, and determined youth.
**Addressing Regional and International Concerns**
General Munir addressed the issue of terrorism and sectarian violence, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and reaffirmed the military’s commitment to combating these threats. He also expressed a desire for good relations with Afghanistan and urged that internal strife not overshadow the strong bond between the neighboring Islamic countries.
**Freedom of Expression and Human Rights**
On the subject of freedom of expression, General Munir acknowledged that while the Pakistani constitution guarantees this right, it also sets clear limits. He quoted Allama Iqbal, reflecting on the balance between freedom of thought and its responsible application. He reminded the nation to remember the human rights violations faced by Kashmiri and Palestinian people, reaffirming Pakistan’s solidarity with their struggles.
**Support for International Allies**
The Army Chief expressed gratitude to Pakistan’s allies, including China, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Turkey, for their consistent support in challenging times.
**Commitment to Sacrifice and Resilience**
Concluding his address, General Munir sent a stern warning to adversaries, asserting that Pakistan is ready to make any necessary sacrifices for its freedom. He reaffirmed the military’s readiness to defend the nation at all costs, emphasizing that freedom comes with a price, and Pakistan is prepared to pay it.
