Daily Times

ISLAMABAD: Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa has reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to eliminating terrorism, saying that war on terror will continue till elimination of the last terrorist from the country. The Army chief said the country will be made an Islamic welfare state in accordance with the wishes of our forefathers.

A ceremony was held at APS Peshawar on Friday to pay homage to the martyrs of APS tragedy. COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa was the chief guest on the occasion. He laid a floral wreath at the martyrs’ monument and offered Fateha for the departed souls.

Later he joined the families of Shuhada, large gathering of locals, school children and staff for a recitation of the Quran. Speaking on the occasion, the COAS said that the terror attack on innocent children was an attack on the humanity and the most painful and unforgettable moment in our history.

“We will never forget our children and thousands others who sacrificed their lives in our fight against terrorism. “While our heart goes out to the affected families, I personally draw my motivation from this huge sacrifice,” said General Qamar Javed Bajwa. “Terrorists tried to demoralise the nation and armed forces by attacking the softest target. My message to enemies of our country is that our resolve is unflinching and we will chase these savages to their last bastion and will not rest till their total elimination from every nook and corner of the motherland,” COAS said.

He assured the parents of Shaheed Children that armed forces along with whole nation stood shoulder to shoulder with them during these testing times. COAS said we are trying our best to render all necessary assistance to the next of kins of the martyrs and we would continue our efforts. He said education was a prerequsite for progress of any nation and army will continue to contribute towards provision of quality education.

Armed forces are guarantors of defence of the country and we will not leave any stone unturned to fulfil our duty. Earlier on arrival, he was received by Lt Gen Hidayat ur Rehman, Comd of Peshawar Corps.