Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir on Thursday said that illegal immigrants are adversely affecting Pakistan’s security and economy.

According to a handout issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the army chief passed these remarks during a visit to Peshawar.

During a session with participants of the First National Workshop Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (NWKP-1) today, Gen Munir said: “Illegal foreigners were seriously affecting Pakistan’s security and economy.”

“The decision to repatriate them has been taken by the government in the interest of Pakistan. Illegal foreigners are being repatriated to their countries in a humane and dignified manner as per the established norms,” the ISPR press release quoted him as saying.

The COAS further remarked that KP’s “resolute support” to security forces had resulted in stability in the province and the materialisation of progress on projects of social and economic development.

General Munir also highlighted the importance of economic growth and development in newly merged districts, the ISPR said.

Earlier, the army chief interacted with soldiers and lauded their efforts to combat terrorism.