Internal threat needs immediate attention: General Kayani

* Army chief says armed forces fully prepared to fight terrorists
* Says Pakistan committed to global peace, will maintain minimum credible deterrence

Staff Report

RAWALPINDI: The internal threats endangering the country’s existence require immediate attention, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Ashfaq Kayani said on Friday

“While external threats continue to exist, it is the internal threat to Pakistan that needs immediate attention,” the COAS said while addressing the 91st Officers Commissioning Parade at the Pakistan Naval Academy.

The country faced numerous challenges but could overcome all problems through unity and support of the people, the army chief said.

“Pakistan is confronted with multifaceted challenges which are complex in nature and their spectrum is both diverse and intense. With the nation’s full support, we will succeed in our fight against terrorism,” Kayani said.

Battle ready: “The forces of terrorism and extremism pose a threat to our national security and stability, but the armed forces of Pakistan are fully prepared to fight this menace,” an ISPR statement quoted the COAS as saying.

“Let me assure you that in line with our proud traditions, the armed forces of Pakistan will never flinch whenever the nation gives us a call,” General Kayani said. “We will succeed in our fight against terrorism.”

Deterrence: The COAS said Pakistan stood committed to global and regional peace, adding that the country was against an arms race in the region, but would maintain a balance through a strategy of minimum credible deterrence.

“A strong army is the guarantor of peace and stability,” he added. Kayani urged commissioned officers to uphold the trust and confidence, which the nation had reposed in them. He also extended his felicitations to them.

Later, the army chief gave away prizes to the winners. Midshipman Zeeshan Zafar was awarded the Sword of Honour. The Academy Dirk went to Midshipman Sohaib Leghari, while the Quaid-e-Azam and Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee gold medals were won by Sub-Lieutenant Asif Raza and Cadet Muhammad Arsalan, respectively.

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