ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir addressed the Overseas Pakistanis Convention with a passionate and powerful speech, declaring that “Kashmir was, is, and will always remain Pakistan’s jugular vein.”
The hall echoed with chants of “Pakistan Zindabad” and “Pakistan ka matlab kya?” as overseas Pakistanis responded with great enthusiasm to the Army Chief’s words.
General Munir praised the role of overseas Pakistanis during the Overseas Pakistanis Convention wholeheartedly, calling them not only ambassadors of the country but also “the light of Pakistan that shines across the world.”
He spoke strongly on various national and international matters, including terrorism in Balochistan, the misuse of social media, the situation in Gaza, and the long-standing Kashmir issue.
Referring to brain drain, the Army Chief rejected the negative narrative and instead called it “brain gain.” He encouraged overseas Pakistanis to represent Pakistan proudly and with honour on the global stage.
He reaffirmed that “as long as the brave people of this country stand with their armed forces, no harm can come to Pakistan.” General Munir also stated that anyone who spreads rebellion within Pakistan’s security institutions is an enemy of the state.
On Balochistan, he said, “Ten generations of terrorists cannot harm Balochistan or Pakistan. Balochistan is the crown jewel of Pakistan’s destiny.”
The Army Chief emphasised the importance of unity and the rule of law during the Overseas Pakistanis Convention, saying, “A state where all institutions work within the framework of the constitution and law is called a hard state.” He also stressed the nation’s deep respect for its martyrs.
Speaking about Gaza in the Overseas Pakistanis Convention, he said, “The hearts of Pakistanis beat with the people of Gaza.”
General Munir concluded his speech at the Overseas Pakistanis Convention with a message of hope and resilience: “We must not give up hope, nor allow ourselves to fall into despair.”