ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, said on Wednesday that in an Islamic state, the authority to declare jihad rests solely with the state and cannot be exercised by any individual or group.
Addressing the National Ulema and Mashaikh Conference in Islamabad on Wednesday, the country’s top military commander said that terrorism is not Pakistan’s way but India’s, adding that Pakistan confronts its adversaries openly rather than through covert actions. He added that the nation has prevailed in the “battle of truth” with divine support.
The Chief of Defence Forces underscored the central role of the state, the value of knowledge, and the responsibility of religious leadership in guiding society. He urged scholars to promote national unity and help broaden the public’s perspective.
Defence pact with Saudi Arabia
Calling the defence pact with Saudi Arabia a historic milestone, he said the ‘State of Tayyiba’ and the State of Pakistan share a profound bond, adding that Allah Almighty has bestowed upon Pakistan the honour of safeguarding the Haramain on behalf of the Muslim world.
The top military commander said Pakistan regarded its connection with the Kingdom as unique.
Signed in September, the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement has further strengthened decades of Saudi–Pakistan defence cooperation, encompassing intelligence-sharing, counterterrorism efforts and regional security.
The two countries have maintained long-standing defence coordination, with Pakistani military personnel stationed in the Kingdom for many years.
Significance of knowledge
Emphasising the significance of knowledge, Field Marshal Munir noted that any nation that abandons learning and the written word falls into disorder and corruption.
He stressed that true dignity and strength are not attained through division, but through hard work and the pursuit of knowledge.
He added that Pakistan does not strike the enemy from hiding, rather, it confronts and defeats them openly.
