Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on Saturday delivered a strong message to India, warning that Pakistan will defend its sovereignty at all costs and is fully prepared to respond to any aggression.

Speaking at the passing-out parade at PNS Rahbar, the army chief said India displayed “blatant hostility”, which Pakistan answered with both strength and restraint.

“India carried out unjustified attacks against Pakistan. On both occasions, we gave a firm and effective response, preventing the situation from escalating into a larger regional conflict,” he said.

Field Marshal Asim Munir reaffirmed that Pakistan’s sovereignty is non-negotiable, and any attempt to challenge it will invite consequences.

“We prioritize peace but will never compromise on our national interests. The enemy must not mistake our patience for weakness.”

“If our enemy believes we will tolerate violations of our sovereignty, they are gravely mistaken,” he stated.

“If the enemy thinks that Pakistan is weak or will not respond, then they are seriously mistaken,” he added.

He also said that India wanted to gain political benefits from its military power, nationalism, and fake strategic importance. Our enemy is constantly demonstrating arrogant and aggressive behaviour, he added.

“Our adversary continues to show arrogance and aggression,” he stated. “However, our national spirit has only grown stronger in times of adversity, and our armed forces remain vigilant and prepared.”

Call for maritime strength and regional peace

Field Marshal Asim Munir emphasized the importance of enhancing Pakistan’s maritime capabilities in the face of rapidly evolving naval warfare.

“We must maintain a strong and effective maritime force. The sea domain is transforming, and Pakistan cannot afford to lag behind,” he told the cadets.

He congratulated cadets from friendly countries — Turkey, Bahrain, Iraq, Palestine, and Djibouti — commending the high standards and professionalism of the Naval Academy.

The exemplary turnout and enthusiastic attitude of the cadets at the parade is a testament to the high standards of the Naval Academy. The award-winning cadets deserved special praise for their outstanding achievements, he added.

Kashmir and the fight against terrorism

Turning to regional issues, the army chief reiterated Pakistan’s support for the people of Indian-occupied Kashmir, calling their struggle “legitimate and lawful,”.

“India’s illegal occupation must end. Sustainable peace in South Asia is not possible without a just resolution of the Kashmir dispute in line with UN Security Council resolutions,” he asserted.

The oppressive government of India can never dampen the courage and morale of the Kashmiris. Pakistan will continue to support the Kashmiris politically, diplomatically and morally, he stated.

On domestic security, Field Marshal Asim Munir expressed confidence in Pakistan’s ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.

“We are on the verge of complete success in the war against terrorism. India, however, is deliberately creating tensions in the region,” he stated.