COAS asks other stakeholders, including Afghanistan, to ‘do more’ against terrorism

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In this photograph taken on November 16, 2016, Pakistani Army General Qamar Javed Bajwa watches a military exercise on the Indian border in Khairpure Tamay Wali in Bahawalpur district. Pakistan on November 26 appointed General Qamar Javed Bajwa as the country's powerful new chief of army staff, the prime minister's office said. / AFP PHOTO / SS MIRZA

ISLAMABAD: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Bajwa on Saturday made it clear to the world that Pakistan had done enough and would continue to do what it can to counter terrorism, but it was now time for other stakeholders, especially for Afghanistan to do more.

According to the ISPR, the army chief made these remarks while chairing a high-level security huddle held to review the security situation in the backdrop of the recent spate of terrorist activities in the country.

The COAS was briefed in detail about the recent incidents and their manifest linkages with terrorist sanctuaries in Afghanistan operating under the patronage of NDS and RAW.

“(The) COAS said that since 9/11, Pakistan is one of the few countries which have borne the brunt of terrorism and made monumental sacrifices to effectively neutralise this menace in its state territories. Unfortunately, our sacrifices against terrorism are not well acknowledged and we are often subjected to demand of ‘Do More’,” the statement said.

“It was concluded that while counter-terrorism efforts by Pakistan continue, it is time now for the other stake holders particularly Afghanistan to ‘Do More’,” the handout added.

The COAS reiterated that the Pakistan army will continue its efforts to positively contribute towards regional peace & stability and shall not allow the use of Pakistani territory against any other country.

“(The) COAS appreciated efforts of Security Forces, Intelligence and other Law Enforcement Agencies in foiling countless terrorist activities through ongoing ‘Operation Radd ul Fasaad’,” the statement added.

The COAS also expressed his resolve to eliminate the menace of terrorism to ensure safety & security of Pakistan and its resilient people who are the real strength of their brave Security Forces.