COAS Asim Munir neither gave any interview nor made political statement in Brussels: DG ISPR

Rawalpindi (Web Desk): Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said that Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, during his recent visit to Brussels, neither made any political statements nor discussed reconciliation with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

Speaking to journalists, he clarified that a piece written by journalist Sohail Warraich was based on an event held in Brussels, where numerous attendees took photographs.

Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said that the presence of hundreds of people at the event and the act of taking photographs should not be misinterpreted as a political message or a signal of forgiveness.

He said that the narrative, which suggested references to PTI or apologies, was fabricated.

The DG ISPR criticized the article as a self-serving attempt by the journalist to gain attention and publicity, lamenting that such behavior was especially disappointing coming from someone regarded as a senior journalist.

He said it is unfortunate that even as a senior journalist, such irresponsible behaviour was displayed.

Addressing the broader implications of May 9 incident, the DG ISPR stated that the perpetrators and facilitators of the riots will have to face the law.

Justice, he said, will take its course without interruption, and those who played a role in orchestrating or executing the violence must face the consequences.

He said that asking for forgiveness may be a moral gesture, but it does not exempt anyone from legal consequences.

Lt. Gen. Chaudhry described the incident not merely as an attack on the military but as an assault on the state of Pakistan itself, something that cannot be overlooked or forgiven without consequence.

The DG ISPR stressed that this is not an issue confined to the military alone—it concerns the entire nation.

The DG ISPR also touched on the broader regional challenges faced by Pakistan.

He said the country's strategic position makes it a frequent target of hostility. Despite this, Pakistan remains resilient.

He stressed the importance of youth being aware of the nation's ideological foundations and history, which he believes are essential to understanding Pakistan’s ongoing struggle and strength.

Turning to India, Lt. Gen. Chaudhry highlighted that the neighboring country had underestimated Pakistan, believing its extensive military resources and the use of terrorist proxies could tarnish the image of the Pakistani military. However, Pakistan’s firm response turned the tide, leaving India and its allied elements discredited.

He pointed out that while some voices claimed India’s military superiority would ensure an easy victory, others even suggested simultaneous attacks by India and its affiliated forces, referring to them as "Fitna al-Khawarij" and "Fitna al-Hindustan."

"Nevertheless, Pakistan stood its ground and successfully defended itself on all fronts," the DG ISPR said.

He mentioned that the consensus decision made by all political parties in 2014 to eliminate the entire spectrum of terrorism in Pakistan has still not been fully implemented.

"Attempts to remove illegal Afghan nationals involved in criminal activity often face pushback from political and criminal factions within the country" the DG ISPR said. 

He called for a complete and immediate implementation of the National Action Plan’s 14 points, emphasizing its critical importance for national stability.

The DG ISPR remarked that Pakistan's people are its most valuable resource. He acknowledged the persistent challenges in governance but said that these are being steadily addressed thanks to the unwavering dedication and sacrifices made by the nation’s military, police, and other law enforcement bodies.