Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir has stressed the need for focusing on performance and duties rather than indulging in baseless criticism.

“Pakistan is an invaluable gift from Allah, blessed with numerous bounties,” he said while engaging in a conversation with students from various universities across Bahawalpur in Bahawalpur.

He told this to students from various universities across Bahawalpur after inaugurating the CMH Institute of Medical Sciences, Innovista Cholistan and Integrated Combat Simulator Arena on Saturday, the Inter-Services Public Relations said.

He urged the youth to never forget their beliefs, ancestors, and social values. The army chief stated that for the country’s development, “each individual must light their own candle and focus on their performance and duties rather than indulging in baseless criticism.”

COAS Munir added that “as long as great mothers continue to nurture their children for Pakistan, and as long as the nation, especially the youth, stands shoulder to shoulder with its armed forces, no one can harm the country.”

He pointed out that terrorism was backed by an “organised illegal spectrum supported by certain elements.” The army chief noted that whenever the “state takes action against these elements, their false narratives become audible.”

COAS General Munir has encouraged students to pursue academic excellence with dedication and equip themselves with the skills necessary to contribute “meaningfully” to national development.

The army chief lauded the “pivotal role” of the youth in shaping Pakistan’s future and reaffirmed the army’s support for initiatives that empower young talent.

Earlier, upon his arrival, the Bahawalpur Corps commander received the COAS.

COAS Munir visited Bahawalpur Cantonment where he was apprised about operational preparedness and training aspects of Bahawalpur Corps.

While addressing officers and troops, he commended their “unwavering dedication, high morale, and combat readiness.” The army chief reiterated that “rigorous training remains the cornerstone” of a soldier’s professional development and must continue to be the “defining attribute” of the Pakistan Army in overcoming the challenges of modern warfare.

Last month, the army chief interacted with a delegation of university and college students from across Pakistan. He emphasised the importance of education and skill development in shaping a brighter future for the nation.

While acknowledging the energy, creativity, and potential of the youth, COAS Munir described them as the “future leaders of Pakistan.”

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He also added that the Pakistan Army would never allow the banned Fitna al Khawarij, erstwhile TTP, to impose its values onto the country.

“We will never ever allow this kind of perverted group to impose its values onto our country,” he said.

A video of his interaction with a delegation of university and college students from across Pakistan earlier this week was released on the national media on February 12.