Daily Times

ISLAMABAD: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Monday said Indian army’s atrocities in occupied valley have not dampened the spirit of the Kashmiri people, adding that Pakistan Army will always stand with them in their just struggle against repression.

Indian atrocities could not defeat the courage and sacrifices of the brave Kashmiris, the army chief said during his visit to forward troops deployed at the Line of Control, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). According to the military’s media wing, General Bajwa affirmed continued support for people of Held Kashmir against Indian atrocities and oppression.

Gen Bajwa was briefed about recent ceasefire violations across the LoC and the response of Pakistani troops to cross-border firing, the ISPR statement said. “There is no better way to celebrate independence than defending the country,” the army chief said while lauding spirit of the troops deployed at the LoC.

Gen Bajwa was received by Commander Rawalpindi Corps Lieutenant General Nadeem Raza on his arrival.

Earlier, Pakistan Rangers officials presented sweets to Indian Border Security Force personnel at the Wagah Border to celebrate the Independence Day.

On the eve of Pakistan’s 70th birthday anniversary, Gen Bajwa commenced the Independence Day celebrations by hoisting the largest national flag in the history of Pakistan at Wagah Border. On the occasion, the army chief said the country was progressing and all its institutions are working properly. The fight against terrorism will continue until the last terrorist is executed, he pledged.

Published in Daily Times, August 15^th 2017.