ISLAMABAD(National times)- President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday commended Pakistan’s security forces for successfully eliminating 13 militants affiliated with the India-backed network Fitna al-Khawarij during intelligence-based operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In a statement issued by the Presidency, President Zardari paid rich tribute to the security forces for their courage, professionalism and steadfastness. He applauded the effective intelligence-driven actions undertaken by the Pakistan Army and law-enforcement agencies, calling them a testament to their operational excellence. President Zardari said that the state was ensuring the complete and uncompromising eradication of militants operating under foreign patronage. “The elimination of India-sponsored extremists is being ensured with full force and firmness of state authority,” he said. He added that the total defeat of externally backed terrorism was being pursued with national consensus and unity of purpose. The president reaffirmed that Pakistan’s security personnel continued to display remarkable bravery and commitment in safeguarding the nation, earning the gratitude of the entire country. The Prime Minister’s Office, in a separate statement, said Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif also praised the security forces for carrying out successful operations against Fitna-tul-Khawarij terrorists in Lakki Marwat and Dera Ismail Khan. He appreciated the elimination of 13 militants and said the actions reflected the successes being achieved under the government’s Azm-e-Istehkam vision. Prime Minister said the entire nation stood shoulder to shoulder with the armed forces in the fight against terrorism. He reiterated the government’s firm resolve to eliminate every form of militancy from Pakistan, stating, “We remain committed to the complete eradication of terrorism from the country.”