Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir has called for a collective national effort to prioritize Pakistan’s interests above individual or political agendas, urging unity and optimism for the country’s future. Speaking to the business community in Karachi on Wednesday, he emphasized, “Our only identity is Pakistan, and we must place its interests above all.”
Drawing a parallel with nations like Iraq, Libya, and Palestine, General Munir underscored the value of a strong state, likening it to a mother whose importance is felt when lost. This message comes at a time when Pakistan is emerging from a challenging economic period with renewed hope for stability and progress.
Economic Recovery: From Crisis to Opportunity
General Munir highlighted Pakistan’s improving economic indicators, crediting policies and reforms that have started to bear fruit. Drawing on official data, he noted that Pakistan’s GDP growth rate had increased to 2.4% in FY2024, driven by robust agricultural growth of 6.3% and a resurgence in industrial and service sectors.
“Disappointment is forbidden for Muslims,” he reminded, urging businesses and citizens alike to remain hopeful and invest in Pakistan. “Those who spoke of default and spread despair have been proven wrong,” he stated, encouraging Pakistanis to bring their money back into the country to fuel economic progress.
Key economic highlights include:
- A surge in the Karachi Stock Exchange (KSE-100 index), which climbed by 79.5% over the past year.
- A sharp drop in inflation, from 38% in May 2023 to 11.8% in May 2024, easing pressures on consumers and businesses alike.
Combating Illegal Practices and Terrorism
The COAS also pointed out the nexus between illegal business activities and terrorism, vowing to protect Pakistan’s digital boundaries and security. He emphasized that addressing such threats was essential for ensuring a secure environment for economic growth and national stability.
IDEAS 2024: Showcasing Pakistan’s Defense Innovations
Later, General Munir visited the International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS 2024) at the Karachi Expo Centre, where he praised the active participation of defense manufacturers worldwide. The exhibition featured 557 exhibitors, including 333 international participants from 36 countries, reaffirming global confidence in Pakistan’s defense capabilities.
A highlight of the event was the unveiling of Shahpar-III, an advanced combat Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) developed by Global Industrial Defence Solutions (GIDS). The UAV, capable of operating at 35,000 feet for over 24 hours and carrying advanced weaponry, demonstrates Pakistan’s growing expertise in defense technology.
Addressing Public Concerns
Despite the positive outlook, Pakistan still faces challenges such as high debt, global economic uncertainty, and the need to broaden the tax base. While General Munir’s optimism is inspiring, tangible steps must be taken to ensure economic recovery benefits the general public. Job creation, inflation control, and infrastructure development remain key areas of focus for the government.
The COAS’s call for unity and prioritization of national interests is a timely reminder that overcoming these challenges requires collective effort from every Pakistani. His message to the nation is clear: “Only a Pakistani can bail out Pakistan’s economy.”
