ISLAMABAD: While emphasising the adverse impact of terrorism on development, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Asim Munir has underscored a “collective imperative” to safeguard the country’s hard-earned peace, the military’s media wing said.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Gen Munir urged “all stakeholders, especially the local populace, to remain vigilant against adversarial elements seeking to destabilise the region. Maintain unwavering focus on your professional duties in service to the nation.”

The army chief expressed these views during a visit to Miramshah and Spinwam in Khyber Pakhtun­khwa’s North Waziristan, where he joined troops celebrating Eidul Fitr, according to a Dawn.com report.

Gen Munir offered Eid prayers at the frontline, praying for the “enduring stability and prosperity of Pakistan”, the ISPR stated. “He conveyed heartfelt Eidul Fitr greetings to the troops, commending their unwavering dedication and service to the nation,” it added.

Gen Asim Munir spends Eid with troops in Miramshah, Spinwam

The COAS then received a “comprehensive briefing on operational readiness and the prevailing security landscape, with a specific focus on border security measures along the Pak-Afghan border”.

“Acknowledging the formation’s monumental efforts in fostering peace and stability, [the] COAS attributed these strides to the sacrifices of our martyrs, facilitating [a] secure environment conducive to socio-economic development, particularly in the newly merged districts and throughout Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” the ISPR stated.

Earlier on arrival, the army chief was warmly received by the Peshawar corps commander, the ISPR said.

On the occasion, the armed forces also shared their heartfelt wishes with the nation. For soldiers, the ISPR said, the essence of Eid was found in the honour of serving their country — often far from home and the joyous gatherings of Eid. The armed forces prayed for Pakistan’s prosperity and highlighted the “courage and valour of our national heroes”, it added.

Published in Dawn, April 13th, 2024