Army chief says Pakistan’s territorial integrity ‘will not be compromised’

Pakistan’s army chief has said that the country’s territorial integrity and the safety of its citizens “will not be compromised under any circumstances,” reaffirming the military’s resolve as senior officials and civil leaders attended a national security workshop in Rawalpindi.

Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir made the remarks on Tuesday during an interactive session with participants of the National Security Workshop–27 at the General Headquarters. The program, organized by Pakistan’s National Defense University, brings together lawmakers, senior civil and military officers, academics and civil society representatives for briefings on national security issues.

The Inter-Services Public Relations, the military’s media wing, said the delegation spent the day receiving detailed briefings on Pakistan’s internal security, regional dynamics and national security challenges.

Officials outlined what they described as an increasingly complex environment marked by cross-border militancy, geopolitical competition among major powers and hybrid warfare, a term Pakistani authorities use for disinformation campaigns, economic pressure and covert support for militants.

Munir said Pakistan’s armed forces, intelligence agencies and law-enforcement institutions are facing “multifaceted and externally supported challenges,” but remain “steadfast and fully committed” to protecting the country.

He emphasized that Pakistan is “a country of consequence” and said he believes it will ultimately achieve what he called its rightful place in the global community.

He added that the army’s professionalism and performance during Marka-e-Haq —the military operation against India in May — had improved Pakistan’s international standing. National unity, he said, remains the country’s greatest asset in countering what he described as the hostile designs of adversaries.

Officials also briefed participants on domestic security measures, including ongoing operations targeting smuggling networks, narcotics trafficking and organized criminal groups. Authorities said these efforts, alongside enhanced border management and the repatriation of illegal foreign nationals, are intended to strengthen internal stability and protect national interests.

Munir said the military would continue to support both federal and provincial governments in addressing these issues. He stressed that sustainable peace and long-term stability require coordinated action among state institutions and collective national effort.

The National Security Workshop, held annually at the National Defense University in Islamabad, aims to deepen participants’ understanding of Pakistan’s security, governance and policy challenges through direct engagement with military and civilian leadership.