LAHORE: Chairman Pakistan Ulema Council Hafiz Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi has said Pakistan has become a focus of the Muslim world because of its strong defence capabilities.
He said national unity between the people and the armed forces remains vital for Pakistan’s defence, security and stability.
Ashrafi made the remarks while addressing a Defence of Pakistan and Protection of the Finality of Prophethood conference at the Lahore Press Club on Sunday.
Ashrafi pays tribute to martyrs
Speaking on Defence Day, Ashrafi prayed for the elevation of the ranks of Pakistan’s military martyrs.
He also paid tribute to soldiers who lost their lives in the fight against terrorism.
Ashrafi said the sacrifices of Pakistan’s martyrs have helped strengthen the country’s defence and security. He added that the nation should continue to remember their services.
He also expressed solidarity with the armed forces and national security institutions in the fight against terrorism and what he described as efforts to destabilise Pakistan.
Calls for unity against terrorism
Ashrafi said Pakistan’s defence is stronger today than in the past. He also referred to what he called Pakistan’s victory in the recent “Marka-e-Haq.”
He said the country’s security and stability came through the sacrifices of its martyrs and veterans.
The religious leader also praised Pakistan’s political and military leadership for establishing the Makkah Defence Alliance. He said Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts had also strengthened its international position.
Warns against efforts to destabilise Pakistan
Ashrafi claimed that Pakistan’s enemies do not want to see the country remain peaceful and stable.
He alleged that hostile forces had launched militant groups in Balochistan. He said Pakistan’s fight against terrorism has entered a decisive phase.
However, he expressed confidence that the country would defeat militant groups through national unity and continued counterterrorism efforts.
Ashrafi also strongly condemned attacks on the bodies of people killed in conflict. He said Islam does not permit the desecration of the dead, even during war.
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Calls for economic and internal stability
Ashrafi said Pakistan must now focus on strengthening its economy and internal stability.
He also called for political consultation on any proposal to reorganise the country’s provinces. He said all political parties should sit together and make decisions in the national interest.
On Azad Jammu and Kashmir, he called for dialogue between the new government and groups that support Pakistan and Kashmir-related causes.
