Marshal Urges Religious Scholars to Maintain Nation’s Unity, Broaden People’s Vision
Civil Defense Force Marshal Asim Munir addressing the guard of honor ceremony held at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi on Monday. Photo: ISPR
Chief of Defense Force and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir said that in an Islamic state, no one except the state has the authority to declare jihad.
Addressing the National Conference of Ulemas and Mashaikhs in Islamabad on Wednesday, he said terrorism is not a practice of Pakistan but of India, asserting that Pakistan confronts its enemies openly rather than through covert means. He added that the nation achieved victory in the “battle of truth” thanks to divine support.
The COAS highlighted the central role of the state, the importance of knowledge and the responsibility of religious leaders in leading the nation. He urged religious scholars to maintain unity within the nation and broaden the outlook of the people.
Learn more: Pakistan is invincible, says CDF Asim Munir
He warned that societies that abandon knowledge and the pen fall prey to disorder and corruption. He emphasized that honor and strength are achieved through hard work and learning rather than division and discord.
Field Marshal Munir also termed the recent defense deal with Saudi Arabia as historic, adding that Allah has bestowed on Pakistan, among all Muslim countries, the honor of being the protector of the Haramain – the holy cities of Makkah and Medina. He added that the “State of Tayyaba” and the State of Pakistan share a deep bond.
