Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on Tuesday reiterated that while Pakistan seeks regional peace and stability, any violation of its territorial integrity, direct or indirect, will be met with a firm and decisive response to safeguard the lives and well-being of its citizens.

Addressing participants of the 17th National Workshop Balochistan at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, Field Marshal Asim Munir said that the Fitna Al Khwarij terror network was spreading an anti-people agenda, while India-backed terrorists were attempting to destabilise Balochistan.

The Pakistan Army continues full-scale operations against such elements, he added.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Asim Munir said that “Balochistan is the pride of Pakistan, and its people can harness immense economic potential”.

The army chief emphasised that long-term prosperity in Balochistan required working beyond political interests.

“The people of Balochistan are talented, patriotic, and resilient. They are the real asset of the nation and the driving force of development,” he added.

Field Marshal Munir stated that both the federal and provincial governments were actively pursuing public welfare-based development projects, and comprehensive steps were being taken to improve the province’s socio-economic structure.

Highlighting the region’s vast economic potential, the army chief said it is essential to utilise these resources for the benefit of the people.

He underlined the constructive role of civil society and the importance of youth participation and empowerment, calling the young generation “the guarantor of Balochistan’s sustainable progress”.

He warned that some elements, driven by political motives, were spreading propaganda against Balochistan’s development.

“Fitna Al Hindustan and Fitna Al Khawarij are India-backed terrorist groups promoting narratives hostile to peace and progress in Balochistan,” he said.

The army chief affirmed that all necessary actions are being taken against terrorists attempting to disrupt peace in the province.

“Pakistan will take every possible step to safeguard the lives and property of its citizens,” he stressed.

He reiterated that Pakistan seeks regional peace and stability but will make no compromise on national sovereignty, pledging a “strong and decisive response to any external or internal aggression”.

Field Marshal Munir concluded by reaffirming that the prosperity, peace, and development of Balochistan remain the state’s top priority.

At the end of the workshop, participants engaged in a question-and-answer session with the army chief, appreciating the role of the armed forces in promoting peace, development, and stability in Balochistan.