Islamabad: Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, called for national unity, religious harmony and greater emphasis on education as he addressed the National Ulema and Mashaikh Conference on Wednesday.
Army Chief Links Pakistan’s Foundation to the Model Islamic State
Munir said the State of Madinah and the State of Pakistan share a deep conceptual connection, adding that Pakistan’s historic defence agreements stem from this foundation. He noted that Pakistan has been uniquely honored among Muslim countries with the responsibility of safeguarding the Haramain.
Calls for Knowledge-Based Strength
The army chief warned that abandoning knowledge and scholarship creates space for disorder. “When nations turn away from knowledge and the pen, chaos and discord take root,” he said. He stressed that dignity and strength come not from division but from hard work and learning.
Criticizes India, Rejects Terrorism as Individual Choice
Munir said terrorism is not Pakistan’s policy but “India’s pattern of behavior.” He asserted that Pakistan confronts its enemies openly. “We do not attack from the shadows; we challenge our enemy head-on,” he said.
He also emphasized that in an Islamic state, only the state has the authority to declare jihad. Any attempt to bypass that authority, he added, undermines national stability and religious order.
Religious Scholars Urged to Promote Unity
The army chief highlighted past successes, saying Pakistan achieved victory in battles of principle with “divine support.” He urged religious scholars to help keep the nation united and to encourage broader perspectives among the public.
“Scholars must serve as a force for cohesion,” he said, urging them to guide society toward tolerance, stability and collective strength.
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