Pakistan Army Chief Urges Youth to Focus on Nation-Building, Warns Against Misinformation

Bahawalpur, Pakistan – March 2, 2025 – Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir has called on Pakistan’s youth to focus on their responsibilities and refrain from engaging in baseless criticism, highlighting the need for national unity and productive discourse.

During his visit to the CMH Institute of Medical Sciences (CIMS) in Bahawalpur, Punjab, on March 1, Gen Munir interacted with students, emphasizing the significance of constructive engagement and self-discipline in ensuring a prosperous future for Pakistan. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) released an official statement regarding the event.

Call for Self-Responsibility

Addressing students at CIMS, Gen Munir underscored the importance of self-responsibility, urging young minds to dedicate themselves to their studies and future careers rather than being consumed by unverified information or misleading narratives online.

“Each of us must focus on our own duties and performance instead of engaging in baseless criticism,” he was quoted as saying by Radio Pakistan.

He further stressed that Pakistan’s youth is its most valuable asset and that their intellectual and moral development is essential for the country's progress. According to ISPR, the army remains committed to supporting initiatives that empower young talent, ensuring they contribute meaningfully to national development.

Pakistan Army’s Role in Nation-Building

The Pakistan Army continues to invest in education and technology-driven advancements. Gen Munir reaffirmed the military’s support for youth-centric initiatives, stating, “Our focus is on fostering a generation that is patriotic, skilled, and forward-thinking, ensuring they play a critical role in shaping the country’s future.”

He also reminded students of their responsibility to uphold Pakistan’s traditions, values, and ideological foundations, urging them to remain steadfast and disciplined in their aspirations.

Concerns Over Misinformation and Online Campaigns

Gen Munir expressed concerns about social media misinformation campaigns targeting Pakistan’s armed forces, warning that such narratives are designed to create division and destabilize national security.

“Social media is being used as a tool to spread anarchy and false information, targeting the military and national institutions,” he cautioned. The COAS reiterated that misinformation and propaganda should not distract the youth from their primary goals of education, innovation, and national service.

The military has previously highlighted that organized networks spread false narratives to undermine national efforts against terrorism and economic stability. In past statements, the ISPR has warned against politically motivated narratives designed to disrupt national security and stability.

Inauguration of New Defense and Technology Projects

During his Bahawalpur visit, Gen Munir inaugurated several key projects, including:

• Innovista Cholistan: A state-of-the-art facility aimed at enhancing research, education, and technological advancements in medical sciences and IT.

• Integrated Combat Simulator Arena: Designed to train personnel in modern warfare tactics and strategic military operations.

At the Bahawalpur Cantonment, the army chief addressed officers and troops, emphasizing the importance of rigorous training in overcoming contemporary security challenges.

Terrorism and National Security

In his address, Gen Munir reiterated the military’s unwavering stance against terrorism, stressing that organized illegal networks continue to pose a threat to Pakistan’s security.

“Terrorism is backed by an illegal spectrum with certain elements providing support to it. Whenever the state takes action against these elements, false narratives are spread to undermine national efforts,” he stated.

Youth and Patriotism

Gen Munir also spoke about Pakistaniat (Pakistani identity), stressing that national unity and patriotism must be upheld at all costs.

“As long as great mothers continue to sacrifice their children for Pakistan and the youth stand united with the armed forces, nobody can harm the country,” he declared.

He further reminded students that Pakistan is a gift from Allah, blessed with abundant natural resources and potential, and called upon them to protect its integrity.

FAQs About Gen Asim Munir’s Speech

1. What did Army Chief Gen Asim Munir say about youth?

Gen Munir urged young Pakistanis to focus on self-responsibility and academic growth instead of engaging in baseless criticism or falling for misinformation campaigns.

2. Why did Gen Munir warn against social media misinformation?

He highlighted that social media is being used to spread anarchy and target the military, emphasizing the need to verify information before believing or sharing it.

3. What projects did Gen Munir inaugurate in Bahawalpur?

He inaugurated Innovista Cholistan and the Integrated Combat Simulator Arena, both aimed at advancing medical education, IT, and military preparedness.

4. What did the COAS say about terrorism?

Gen Munir stated that organized illegal networks support terrorism, and misinformation is often spread to undermine state efforts against such elements.

5. What is the Pakistan Army’s role in youth development?

The army supports educational initiatives and national development programs to empower the younger generation and equip them for future leadership roles.