Pakistan knows how to defend sacrifices of its founders: COAS Asim Munir 

Kakul (Web Desk): Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir reiterated the Pakistan Army's unwavering commitment to protecting the country, stating that Pakistan's defenders remain fully prepared to meet any challenge that threatens its sovereignty.

Addressing the newly commissioned officers at the prestigious ceremony at the Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) in Kakul, the army chief said that the nation’s forefathers made countless sacrifices for the country’s creation and the military stands fully prepared to defend it.

Stressing the fundamental differences between Muslims and Hindus, the COAS stated that Muslims are "distinct from Hindus in all aspects of life — religion, customs, traditions, thinking, and aspirations."

He went on to reaffirm the ideological roots of Pakistan’s creation, saying, "The two-nation theory was based on the fundamental belief that Muslims and Hindus are two separate nations, not one."

COAS Asim Munir highlighted the role of the armed forces in preserving the country’s sovereignty, underscoring that "Pakistan’s existence is the result of an unparalleled struggle and sacrifices, and it remains the military’s duty to safeguard it."

Recalling the historical sacrifices made by the nation’s founders, he asserted, "Our forefathers gave immense sacrifices for the creation of Pakistan. We know how to defend it."

Earlier addressing the ceremony, PM Shehbaz while discussing the rising tensions with India in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, reiterated Pakistan’s openness to a third-party inquiry, saying that the country is willing to participate in a "neutral, transparent and credible" investigation.

PM Shehbaz took a strong stance against what he described as India’s habit of assigning blame without due process.

"The recent tragedy in Pahalgam is yet another example of this pattern," he said.

"Continuing with its role as a responsible country, Pakistan is open to any neutral, transparent and credible investigation."

He criticised New Delhi’s repeated accusations as unfounded and lacking proof, stating that India continues to engage in a "perpetual blame game" and levels "baseless allegations" without "verifiable evidence."

PM Shehbaz reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for the Kashmiri cause, describing Kashmir as the "jugular vein" of Pakistan and reaffirming the country’s commitment to the Kashmiris’ right to self-determination.

Touching on another flashpoint in Indo-Pak relations, the Prime Minister addressed concerns over India’s recent move to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty following the Pahalgam incident.

He issued a stern warning that any effort to block or divert Pakistan’s share of water would trigger a firm response.

Water, he said, is Pakistan’s "lifeline and a vital national interest."

PM Shehbaz also reminded the international community of the price Pakistan has paid in the global fight against terrorism.

Condemning terrorism in all its forms, PM Shehbaz reminded the audience of the immense sacrifices Pakistan has made, with over 90,000 lives lost and economic damages exceeding $600 billion.