ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and COAS General Asim Munir addressed National Youth Convention here yesterday.

PM stated that terrorism had been eradicated in Pakistan, but due to certain mistakes, it has resurfaced in recent years. "Our national hero, Arshad Nadeem, has proven that no matter how challenging circumstances, if nation decides to confront its difficulties, success will follow," he said. He emphasised that key to country's progress lies in hands of its youth and that government is responsible for providing them with modern knowledge to spur development and prosperity.

Reflecting on country's 77-year journey, Sharif acknowledged both failures and successes. "If Pakistan remains united politically and economically, it is because of 1973 Constitution. We became first Islamic nation to achieve nuclear power status. We sacrificed 70,000 lives in war on terror.

He pointed out that while Pakistan suffered $ 150 billion economic loss and made significant sacrifices, nations that urged Pakistan to fight terrorism provided only $ 20 billion in aid.  He praised youth as nation's asset, urging them to engage in small and medium enterprises.

"I have requested Governor to provide loans to youth, with 40 percent allocated to SMEs, creating job opportunities." Commenting on loss of East Pakistan, he remarked that it serves as lesson. "Individual who led movement against Pakistan and declared two-nation theory dead is now facing consequences in Bangladesh." He called on politicians to work together for nation's service.

"If I am serving Pakistan today, then I say without fear that Army Chief and I are working as one, with shared goal of advancing Pakistan." Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir has underscored state's responsibility to protect public from dangers and chaos caused by social media.

Addressing National Youth Convention here, where Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was also in attendance, Army Chief emphasised importance of safeguarding nation from disruptive impact of online platforms. "Strong bond between people, government and military is guarantee of Pakistan's security and development," General Munir stated.

He expressed confidence in country's future, pointing out that "Sparkle in eyes" of youth is sign of hope and security for Pakistan. He highlighted value of an independent state, urging audience to consider struggles of those in regions like Libya, Syria, Kashmir and Gaza. "To understand freedom's worth, look at their plight," he said.

"Knowledge is what sets person apart." He also reminded them of importance of resilience, quoting Quran, "Do people think that they will be left alone because they say: 'We believe,' and will not be tested?" General Munir dismissed narrative of Pakistan's impending economic collapse, asking rhetorically, "Where those who predicted Pakistan's are default now?" He declared Pakistan's youth as nation's most valuable asset, vowing, "We will not let it go to waste." He concluded his address by reciting verse from Allama Iqbal: "Fate of nations lies in hands of individuals, every person is star in destiny of nation."

During subsequent Q&A session, General Munir addressed concerns about recent unrest in Parachinar, urging tribal leaders to work together to resolve local disputes. He praised people of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa for their unwavering support of Pakistan Army in fight against terrorism over past 22 years.

"I have faith that Allah will grant us decisive victory against terrorism," he concluded.

Published in The Daily National Courier, August, 22 2024

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