ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir on Wednesday said it was the state’s responsibility to protect the public from the negative implications of social media.
Addressing the concluding session of the two-day National Youth Convention in Islamabad today, the Army Chief said: “It is the responsibility of the state to keep the public away from the implications of social media-induced hysteria and fitna.”
The Army Chief reassured young Pakistanis that the country’s future is in ‘safe hands’. “Seeing the sparkle in your eyes makes one believe that the future of Pakistan is in safe hands,” the COAS said. He emphasized the importance of unity, education, and resilience in the face of challenges.
The Army Chief highlighted the importance of understanding the value of an independent state, urging the youth to learn from the struggles of people in Libya, Syria, Kashmir, and Gaza. “If you want to know the importance of a free state, ask from the people of Libya, Syria, Kashmir, and Gaza,” the COAS said.
Addressing concerns about the country’s economic situation, the Army Chief pointed out that those who had predicted Pakistan’s default were now silent. “Those who were creating the narrative of Pakistan’s default, where are they today?,” the COAS questioned. He urged the youth to remain optimistic, reminding them that as Muslims, they are forbidden from despair.
The COAS emphasized the importance of the youth as Pakistan’s most valuable asset, promising to protect them from any harm. “Pakistan’s biggest and most valuable asset is our youth, we will not let waste this valuable asset under any circumstances,” the Army Chief said.
The Army Chief stressed the need for a strong bond between the people, government, and the army, stating that this unity is crucial for the country’s security and progress. “A strong relationship between the people, the government and the army is the guarantee of Pakistan’s security and development,” the Army Chief said.
Addressing the recent unrest in Parachinar, the Army Chief stated that the army is committed to helping the tribes resolve their disputes through dialogue and reconciliation.
The Army Chief lauded the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for their unwavering support in the fight against terrorism, comparing them to an iron wall standing alongside the army for the past 22 years.
The Army Chief concluded his address with a message of hope and faith, expressing his belief that Allah will grant Pakistan victory over terrorism.
Addressing the Youth Convention, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif urged the youth to engage with Small and Medium Enterprises for their economic empowerment and skill development. He said he has asked the banks to provide at least forty percent of loans to the SMEs to promote small businesses.
Shehbaz Sharif said the key to Pakistan’s progress is in the hands of youth and this is the reason the government is fully focused on empowering them.
He said the government is utilizing all available resources to facilitate the youth so that they can harness their potential for the progress and prosperity of the country.
He mentioned the youth welfare programs during his tenure as Chief Minister Punjab including the laptop, scholarships and endowment fund schemes.
The Prime Minister said we have to move forward with unity and the Constitution of Pakistan is one such instrument that is binding us all together as one cohesive national force.
He urged all political forces to work together in unison with all constitutional institutions of the country within the contours of the Constitution for the progress of the country.
Highlighting Pakistan’s indomitable struggle to rid of the menace of terrorism, Shehbaz Sharif said over seventy thousand Pakistanis have sacrificed their lives in the war against terrorism.
He commended the security forces and law enforcement agencies for standing resolute in this war.
On the occasion, the Prime Minister paid tribute to national hero, Olympic Champion Arshad Nadeem for bringing laurels manifold to the country in the Paris Olympics 2024 and elating the national pride and festivity on Independence Day.
