Daily Times

KARACHI: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Raheel Sharif lauded the officers and troops of the Pakistan Army and Rangers for their significant successes in improving security situation of Karachi and interior Sindh, the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.

As part of his farewell tour, the COAS on Wednesday visited Karachi and addressed officers and soldiers of Karachi Corps and Sindh Rangers, according to the ISPR. “Life has returned to Karachi and business activity has picked up with its huge contribution to revival of national economy,” the army chief said.

“Any designs of enemies of Pakistan to keep the metropolitan on the boil have been blunted and the gains cannot be allowed to reverse,” Gen Sharif emphasised. “Integrated with the provincial government, our efforts to help build the capacity of civil law enforcing institutions must continue for sustainable peace,” the ISPR quoted the army chief as saying.

The COAS also appreciated all ranks for maintaining vigilance along the international borders. He specially acknowledged the delivery of social services by the Pakistan Army and Rangers to the residents of remote areas and desolate deserts of Sindh in disasters and crises.

General Sharif exhorted the officers and soldiers to focus on their professional pursuits and keep their best soldiering traditions. Earlier upon arrival, the COAS was received by Corps Commander Karachi Lt Gen Naveed Mukhtar. General Sharif is due to retire on November 29 and the new COAS, whenever the name is finalised, will take charge on the same day.