Army chief sees multidimensional security threats to Pakistan

Published April 11, 2014
Earlier this week, a monthly meeting of the military's top brass reviewed internal and external threats to Pakistan’s national security. —ISPR Photo
Earlier this week, a monthly meeting of the military's top brass reviewed internal and external threats to Pakistan’s national security. —ISPR Photo

ISLAMABAD: Chief of Army Staff General Raheel Sharif on Friday said that multidimensional security threats faced by the country require a high state of preparedness at all times.

General Sharif was visiting the Sonmiani Ranges and witnessed air defence firing exercises, an ISPR spokesman said in a statement issued from military headquarters in Rawalpindi.

Complete range of air defence weapons including guns and surface-to-air missiles were used in the exercise.

The army chief greatly appreciated the professionalism of participating units and standards achieved in engaging aerial targets.

“Highest standard of training and professionalism must remain our hallmark to accomplish the mission,” he said.

Earlier on arrival at the range, Gen Sharif was received by the commander of the Army Air Defence unit, Lieutenant-General Muhammad Zahid Latif Mirza, who also briefed him about the purpose of the exercises.

Gen Sharif’s visit follows an important meeting of the army’s top brass earlier this week which reviewed internal and external threats to Pakistan’s national security.


Also read: Army still upset over unfair criticism


At the monthly Corps Commanders conference, Gen Sharif commended soldiers for their work despite “serious security and administrative challenges”, according to an ISPR press release.

  Gen Sharif caused a stir earlier this week when he vowed that the army would “resolutely preserve its own dignity and institutional pride.”
Gen Sharif caused a stir earlier this week when he vowed that the army would “resolutely preserve its own dignity and institutional pride.”

The army chief caused quite a stir in government circles when he vowed at a Special Services Group base in Tarbela that the army would “resolutely preserve its own dignity and institutional pride”.

Gen Sharif’s comments were said to be made in the context of the army’s concern over the trial of former military ruler retired Gen Pervez Musharraf on the charge of high treason.


Related: Musharraf’s indictment - Editorial


The statement had sent shockwaves through government circles and became the topic of debate for analysts and local media talk-show anchors.

Insiders the army is also not happy with the way the government is proceeding with its initiative of holding peace talks with militants involved in the killing of tens of thousands of Pakistani citizens and soldiers.

Opinion

Editorial

Counterterrorism plan
Updated 23 Nov, 2024

Counterterrorism plan

Lacunae in our counterterrorism efforts need to be plugged quickly.
Bullish stock market
23 Nov, 2024

Bullish stock market

NORMALLY, stock markets rise gradually. In recent months, however, Pakistan’s stock market has soared to one ...
Political misstep
23 Nov, 2024

Political misstep

FORMER first lady Bushra Bibi’s video address to PTI followers has triggered a firestorm. Her assertion implying...
Kurram atrocity
Updated 22 Nov, 2024

Kurram atrocity

It would be a monumental mistake for the state to continue ignoring the violence in Kurram.
Persistent grip
22 Nov, 2024

Persistent grip

An audit of polio funds at federal and provincial levels is sorely needed, with obstacles hindering eradication efforts targeted.
Green transport
22 Nov, 2024

Green transport

THE government has taken a commendable step by announcing a New Energy Vehicle policy aiming to ensure that by 2030,...