Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir Wednesday delivered a passionate, compelling and inspiring speech at the National Youth Conference, touching on a range of topics crucial to the peace, stability and prosperity of the country. His words primarily focused on the pivotal role of the youth in shaping Pakistan’s future, the challenges faced by the country, and the preparedness of the armed forces to tackle internal and external threats.
Notably, COAS General Asim Munir commenced his address by expressing pleasure in addressing the “future builders of Pakistan and Shaheens of Iqbal- the youth who indeed are the asset of any country and it is only properly engaging them and addressing their problems, a nation can unlock its true potential for growth and development. Their energy, enthusiasm, and fresh perspectives can contribute significantly to overcoming challenges and steering the country on the right path. Properly engaging the youth involves not only providing opportunities for education and employment but also creating an environment where their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed.
We believe National Youth Conference served as a vital platform where the voices and concerns of the youth were not only acknowledged but also addressed with unwavering commitment. General Asim Munir, demonstrated an unequivocal and emphatic approach in responding to the questions raised by the young participants. His direct engagement with the youth showcased a leadership style that values transparency and inclusivity. By actively listening to the queries and concerns of the attendees, the Army Chief not only demonstrated a genuine interest in understanding the challenges faced by the younger generation but also underscored the importance of their perspectives in shaping national policies.
In his address, the Army Chief also urged the youth to foster immense confidence in their country, culture, and individual capabilities, portraying them as inheritors of a remarkable homeland. Emphasizing their role as custodians of the nation’s rich traditions and interpreters of the visionary dreams outlined by figures like Iqbal and Quaid, the COAS underscored the pivotal responsibility of the youth in preserving and advancing Pakistan’s legacy. It is indeed the duty of top leadership, whether military or civilian, to continually remind the younger generation of their illustrious history and nurture a sense of assurance within them. The impact of the Army Chief’s address at the National Youth Conference is expected to have effectively fulfilled this purpose, particularly for those in attendance, instilling a renewed sense of pride and confidence among the youth.
A notable facet of the Army Chief’s speech lay in his vigilant warning regarding the perils associated with social media. Undeniably, certain elements, both within and beyond the borders, are manipulating social media as a tool for propaganda, intending to sow seeds of anarchy and chaos within the country. As a part of their concerted efforts, these elements have initiated a derogatory campaign against state institutions. In light of these challenges, the Army Chief rightfully addressed this pressing issue, underscoring the imperative need to verify information before accepting and disseminating it. This also shows much importance the Army Chief is according to the national unity.
In addition to the Army Chief’s impactful address, there has also been notable engagement from the caretaker Prime Minister, Anwaar ul Haq Kakar, who has actively interacted with students across different educational institutions. Such initiatives reinforce the understanding that the top leadership is dedicated to fostering a dialogue with the youth. It is imperative that this ongoing interaction continues in the future, ensuring a sustained and collaborative effort between the leadership and the younger demographic in steering the nation towards progress and inclusivity.
We also recognize and commend the efforts that the Army Chief is undertaking to bring investments in the country. The establishment of Special Investment Facilitation Council was his initiative as a result of which some important agreements have been signed with a few Gulf countries whilst more are in the pipeline. The civil military leadership collaboration must continue in future as well to set the country’s direction right.
It is equally incumbent upon the people to actively reject any orchestrated propaganda campaigns aimed at undermining both civilian and military leadership. Recognizing the nefarious attempts to tarnish the reputation of these crucial pillars of governance, we must remain vigilant. By rejecting unfounded narratives and baseless accusations, the public can play a pivotal role in upholding the integrity of their leaders and institutions. It is through collective resilience and a commitment to truth that the society can immunize itself against the divisive effects of misinformation, fostering a climate of unity and trust between the people and their leaders.
