Thaindian News

Islamabad, July 7 (IANS) The Pakistan Army was answerable to the people and their representatives in the parliament, army chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani has said.

Kayani said at a seminar in Mingora town in Swat district that the army derives its strength from the people of Pakistan.

The general said: “Pakistan Army considers people’s support vital for its operations against terrorists, and believes that only the people of Pakistan can determine the national interest and army’s role in their achievement.”

He said that Pakistan’s commitment to war against Al-Qaeda and its affiliates is total and unwavering as it firmly believes in taking stern action against all terror groups, reported Associated Press of Pakistan.

He added that there was no military solution to terrorism since military strategy can only provide an enabling environment.

The general went on to say that following the success of military operations, reconstruction and rehabilitation of infrastructure was promptly launched to restore normalcy.

The rehabilitation effort includes an effective de-radicalisation programme.

“There is general consensus in societies that the national security interests are better served by de-indoctrinating and re-integrating the radicals back into the society.

“By radicalism, I refer to a socio-psychological process of incremental commitment to radical trends - may it be political, psychological or religious. Radicalism is, therefore, a risk factor that can transform into violence and push societies into anarchy.”

He said the largest Pakistani counter insurgency operation was launched by the army, involving approximately three divisions which means 30,000 troops supported by artillery, combat aviation and air force.

He said the largest ever helicopter borne operation at an altitude of 7,000 feet was conducted in Peochar, an inaccessible mountainous area.