Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir on Thursday described teachers as the “biggest asset of Pakistan,” emphasizing their critical role in shaping the nation’s future during an interactive session with vice chancellors, principals, and senior teachers from various universities.
Addressing the 'Hilal Talks' session at the Army Auditorium, Gen Munir said, “Whatever I am today is because of my parents and teachers. It is the responsibility of educators to shape the character of future generations and to pass on the true story of Pakistan.”
He stated that God helped Pakistan in every way in Marka-e-Haq, adding that “when the entire nation stands like an iron wall, no power in the world can break it.”
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the session featured in-depth discussions on key global, regional, and national issues. Approximately 1,800 individuals from the education sector took part in the session. A majority of the students participated virtually, while special participation was noted from students in Balochistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
Addressing the gathering, Field Marshal Asim Munir emphasized the importance of promoting a national narrative rooted in harmony, stability, peace, and development. He urged that educational institutions should serve as hubs of critical thinking and reasoning to contribute effectively to national progress.
Field Marshal Munir acknowledged the various challenges facing the higher education sector, including issues related to quality, accessibility, and research. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting government initiatives aimed at enhancing the educational environment and fostering modern research and innovation.
Firm stance on Kashmir
The army chief reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to the Kashmir cause, asserting, “No deal on Kashmir is possible. We can never forget Kashmir, and India must know that Pakistan will never abandon the Kashmiri people.”
He also slammed India’s long-standing efforts to suppress the Kashmir issue, saying, “India has tried to hide the Kashmir issue for decades, but it has failed. Now, it is no longer possible to bury the truth.”
Gen Munir emphasized that Kashmir is a global issue, while terming terrorism as India’s internal problem, driven by “growing oppression and discrimination against minorities, especially Muslims.”
National sovereignty and water security
Highlighting water as a red line for Pakistan, the field marshal warned, “We will not allow the fundamental right of 240 million Pakistanis to be violated. Pakistan will never accept India’s monopoly over water resources.”
He also criticized Fitna-ul-Hindustan as the subversive elements in Balochistan and clarified that such militants have no connection with the Baloch people.
Call for institutional integrity
Field Marshal Munir called for a stronger Pakistan where institutional harmony, constitutional governance, and rule of law are supreme. “We must build a state where all institutions work for the welfare of the people without any political pressure, financial interests, or personal motives,” he said.
He urged citizens and educators alike to reject any narrative that aims to weaken the state.
During the Q&A session, participants raised the slogan: 'Ye jo mehfooz dharti hai, iske peeche wardi hai (This land is safe because of the uniform that stands behind it).'
“We are proud of Pakistan and our armed forces and will continue to stand by them,” said one attendee.
Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir also met with participants of the event. He also engaged in a question-and-answer segment with participants, addressing their concerns and ideas directly.
Initiatives like 'Hilal Talks', he noted, create valuable platforms for intellectual exchange and constructive dialogue. Participants unanimously expressed their commitment to work together for a stronger, more united, and prosperous Pakistan through continued engagement and cooperation.
