Rawalpindi: Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on Wednesday warned that any violation of Pakistan’s territorial integrity, whether direct or indirect, would be met with a firm and decisive response.

Interacting with participants of the 18th National Workshop on Balochistan at General Headquarters, the army chief said the Pakistan Armed Forces remained fully committed to safeguarding the lives and well-being of citizens, according to a statement issued by Inter Services Public Relations.

Highlighting the prevailing security challenges, Field Marshal Asim Munir said Indian-sponsored proxies continued to incite violence and disrupt development activities in Balochistan. He reaffirmed that such hostile designs would be thwarted through resolute actions by the security forces to rid the province of terrorism and unrest.

The army chief appreciated the resilience and patriotism of the people of Balochistan, underscoring the province’s pivotal importance to Pakistan’s prosperity and long-term development. He lauded the wide-ranging initiatives being undertaken by the federal and provincial governments, stressing a people-centric approach aimed at improving socio-economic conditions and unlocking Balochistan’s vast economic potential for its residents.

He also acknowledged the constructive role of civil society, particularly in countering propaganda, and highlighted its importance in promoting sustainable development. Emphasising unity, the army chief urged the rejection of vested political agendas to ensure that Balochistan’s future is shaped by inclusive and lasting prosperity.

The workshop focused on Balochistan’s socio-economic development and its strategic significance for the country. The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer segment, during which the army chief responded to queries and shared further insights into ongoing security and development efforts in the province.