Field Marshal Asim Munir, Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has firmly rejected any notion of Indian dominance in the region, stating unequivocally that Pakistan has never bowed to Indian hegemony — and never will. The statement was made during his address to the probationary officers of the 52nd Common Training Program (CTP) at the Civil Services Academy in Lahore, as reported by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The young officers had recently concluded their attachment with Pakistan Army units stationed across Kashmir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan, gaining crucial exposure to both peacetime duties and operational environments. Their interaction with the COAS was part of a national effort to enhance civil-military understanding and foster institutional cooperation.

Speaking on regional dynamics, Field Marshal Munir accused India of being the “biggest state sponsor of terrorism” in South Asia and praised the unity displayed by Pakistani institutions during recent operations, notably the “Marka-e-Haq” — a coordinated response to Indian aggression. He emphasized that Pakistan’s retaliation spanned “from the Line of Control to coastal borders,” demonstrating resolve and strategic preparedness.

“The battle was not just military; it was moral,” Munir said, attributing success to divine support because, in his words, “Pakistan stood on the side of truth.” He underscored that Pakistan’s armed forces remain fully equipped and ready to confront modern warfare challenges.

Touching on internal challenges, he pointed to India’s domestic unrest, particularly the mistreatment of minorities, as the root of its own internal terrorism, stating that India’s internal repression fuels regional instability.

He also addressed Pakistan’s relationship with Afghanistan, expressing a desire for constructive ties while urging Kabul not to provide sanctuary to Indian-backed militant networks such as “Fitna-e-Hindustan” and “Fitna-e-Khawarij.” These groups, he warned, pose a threat not only to Pakistan but to regional peace.

The army chief reminded the trainees of their crucial role as future civil servants, urging them to embody integrity, competence, and most importantly, strong moral character. “If you must choose between courage, competence, and character — always choose character,” he advised.

He warned against letting dysfunction or negativity overshadow national systems, stating, “Nations that forget their past risk losing their future.” Munir also reiterated the need for a transparent, accountable civil bureaucracy that upholds the principles of service and patriotism.

The session concluded with an engaging Q&A, where participants shared reflections on national policy, civil-military coordination, and the vision for Pakistan’s future. The officers expressed appreciation for the opportunity to gain insight directly from the highest levels of military leadership.

Through his address, Field Marshal Munir reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering stance on sovereignty, national unity, and the importance of cohesive civil-military efforts in ensuring a strong and secure future.