RAWALPINDI(National Times)- Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir has said that foreign-sponsored proxies are being employed by hostile elements to destabilise Balochistan, obstruct its development and “create a wedge between the state and its people”, the military’s media affairs wing said on Friday.
According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), he made the remarks while interacting with the political leadership of Balochistan.
It said that CDF Munir underscored that the “present and the future of Balochistan and Pakistan are one and forever”.
“He highlighted that Balochistan is blessed with talented, resilient, patriotic and proud people. He emphasised that clear national narrative and enduring peace and stability are fundamental to unlocking the province’s true economic potential, attracting investment and translating its abundant human and natural resources into tangible prosperity for its people,” the statement said.
CDF Munir also stressed that there was no dearth of talent or opportunities among Balochistan’s youth, who “remain the most vibrant and promising segment of our society”.
He emphasised that empowering the youth and providing them opportunities for contributing to national progress remained central to sustainable development.
“CDF Munir stated that Fitna al Khawarij and Fitna al Hindustan are foreign-sponsored proxies being employed by hostile elements to destabilise Balochistan, obstruct its development and create a wedge between the state and its people. He reiterated that these inimical designs will be defeated through the collective resolve of the nation and an unwavering, resolute and decisive response by the state,” it said.
Fitna al Khawarij is a term the state uses for terrorists belonging to the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) while Fitna al Hindustan is a term designated by the state for terrorist organisations in Balochistan.
CDF Munir also appreciated the role of Balochistan’s notables and leaders in promoting peace, strengthening social cohesion and advancing a constructive national discourse, ISPR said.
“He emphasised the need to holistically and without hesitation counter hostile propaganda, expose false narratives and project the true potential, progress and aspirations of Balochistan and its people. He underscored that the destiny of Balochistan rests only in the hands of the people of Balochistan,” it added.
The statement said that the participants reaffirmed their commitment to peace, development and prosperity in Balochistan and Pakistan.
“They resolved to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the state and armed forces against all foreign-sponsored threats to the peace and stability. They expressed their firm resolve to contribute towards people-centric development leading towards peaceful, stable and prosperous Balochistan where only truth shall prevail and inimical forces’ narrative is buried in its own propaganda and fakery,” the statement concluded.
The CDF’s remarks come as Balochistan continues to grapple with security challenges.
According to the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies’ (PICSS) monthly security assessment released on July 31, the security situation deteriorated most significantly in Balochistan in the country last month.
The overall death toll increased by 241pc in Balochistan, from 109 in June to 372 in July, the report said.
Security personnel deaths in Balochistan increased from six in June to 62 in July, representing a rise of 933pc. Terrorist deaths rose from 75 to 238, while civilian deaths increased by 93pc, from 28 to 54. Eighteen members of peace committees were also killed in the province.
