ISLAMABAD(National times)- President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday jointly commended security forces for two successful counter-terrorism operations carried out in Bajaur and Bannu districts, leading to the elimination of 23 militants linked to the India-backed terrorist network, Fitna al-Khawarij. In a statement issued by the Presidency, President Zardari paid tribute to the security personnel, calling the neutralization of the militants “a testament to the forces’ effective strategy and unwavering professionalism.” He emphasized that the killing of several terrorists, including a key ringleader, in Bajaur sent a clear and uncompromising message to all enemies of peace. The president lauded the troops for their “outstanding operational expertise,” in Bannu Operation, noting that the timely actions of security forces reflect the state’s firm resolve to uphold peace and stability across Pakistan. “There is no space for foreign-sponsored terrorism on Pakistan’s soil,” he asserted. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in another statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, also praised the successful intelligence-based operations. Acknowledging the elimination of 23 militants as a significant achievement, he said the victories were aligned with the government’s broader Vision of ‘Azm-e-Istehkam’, aimed at ensuring long-term national stability. “The entire nation stands shoulder to shoulder with Pakistan’s armed forces in the fight against terrorism,” the PM said, reaffirming the government’s resolve to eradicate all forms of militancy from the country. “We remain fully committed to the complete and irreversible defeat of terrorism,” he added.