January 04, 2008	Friday	Zilhaj 24, 1428

RAWALPINDI, Jan 3: Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani said on Thursday that the country was facing difficult challenges and the only way to thwart and defeat all kinds of threats was through a comprehensive national effort, with all segments of the society playing their rightful role.

“It is the harmonisation of socio-political, administrative and military strategies that will usher in an environment of peace and stability in the long term. Ultimately it is the will of the people and their support that is decisive,” he stressed while addressing the 105th Corps Commanders Conference at the General Headquarters here.

This was the first conference chaired by General Kayani after assuming the office of the COAS.

The participants were given a comprehensive briefing on security environment in and around the country with special focus on army’s employment in Swat and Waziristan.

The Chief of the Army Staff outlined his vision and direction for the army in coming years.

Training and professional pursuits “must remain our prime focus” to enhance operational preparedness so that “we attain the highest standards of capability at all levels to meet challenges of internal and external threat in tandem with other elements of national power”, he emphasised.

General Kayani said that the army would spare no effort in defending the country. He said that modernising of the army was progressing well, which would ensure that “we maintain our cutting edge”.

Concurrent to training and enhancement of operational preparedness, he said that welfare of troops would be accorded the highest priority. In this regard, 2008 has been declared the ‘Year of the Soldier’. Concentrated efforts will be made through a comprehensive package to improve the quality of life of soldiers.

Reviewing army’s employment in various parts of the country to support the civil administration in maintenance of law and order, the army chief appreciated the efforts of the army in undertaking difficult tasks in a challenging environment.

He said while troops were undertaking this challenging assignment, all resources that were essential for successful completion of the task would be provided to the troops.

He appreciated all ranks of the army for their good work in assisting local administration in restoring law and order in Sindh during the last few days.—APP