ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar on Wednesday affirmed that as responsible citizens, the people of Pakistan must reject and collectively fight the vicious propaganda onslaught unleashed by the enemies against Pakistan in the recent past. The prime minister, addressing the Pakistan National Youth Convention 2024 as the chief guest, said the youth could play a constructive role in dealing with this emerging national security challenge provided they remained focused, and fact-check all details through authentic information from the state institutions rather than falling prey to the propaganda.
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir, who also addressed the participants, was the guest of honour.
“We, as a nation, have fought the menace of terrorism most valiantly, offering unparalleled sacrifices,” he said.
PM Kakar appreciated the role of the armed forces in the fight against the menace of terrorism with full commitment and professional excellence. “Pakistan’s successes in the war against terrorism would not have been possible without the participation and support of the youth who make up 65% of our population,” he added.
Addressing the conference, the army chief cautioned the youth against content on social media, saying one of the objectives of “propaganda” on it was to “spread negativity and chaos in society”.
He urged the attendees to corroborate and confirm content on social media as he expressed confidence in the upcoming generation. COAS assured the attendees that the armed forces of Pakistan were always ready to face any threat and conspiracy against the country and emphasised that if we, as the people, exist as Pakistan is our identity and we would be ‘nothing’ without the country.
The army chief added that the country will never compromise on its sovereignty and he has full faith in Pakistan’s bright future.
Referring to the youth as guardians of the country’s bright traditions, the army chief said maintained that though the army can fight against terrorists, the cooperation of the entire nation is necessary in the fight.
General Munir also urged the youth to have confidence in the country, its culture, civilization and in themselves, adding that they should be confident that they are the offspring of a great homeland and nation.
The army chief also said the country is blessed with abundant mineral resources, agriculture and a demographic youth bulge. –Agencies
