RAWALPINDI — October 2, 2026: Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir chaired the 277th Corps Commanders’ Conference at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi, where the military leadership reviewed the prevailing security environment, counterterrorism efforts and Pakistan’s broader defence priorities.
The conference began with Fateha for the martyrs of the Armed Forces, law-enforcement agencies and civilians, with participants paying tribute to those who lost their lives in defence of the country.
Pakistan’s Right To Self-Defence
According to the ISPR statement, the forum maintained that targeted operations against terrorism emanating from Afghanistan constitute Pakistan’s right to self-defence. The commanders also reviewed ongoing intelligence-based counterterrorism operations and appreciated the efforts of law-enforcement agencies.
The forum stressed that counterterrorism efforts require measures beyond ground operations, including stronger administration, governance and policing capacity. It also called for bringing governance closer to citizens and improving public communication concerning the causes and dynamics of terrorism.
Focus On Internal Stability
The commanders underscored the importance of internal stability and stated that attempts to create violent unrest or circumstances similar to the May 9, 2023 events would be dealt with through decisive action and under the rule of law, according to ISPR.
The forum also emphasised the need to disrupt what it described as the crime-terror nexus and continue strengthening intelligence-based operations.
Support For Makkah Joint Defence Agreement
The conference welcomed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye. The agreement was signed in Makkah on August 7, 2026, and provides for enhanced defence cooperation and collective security arrangements among the three countries.
The agreement states that an armed attack against any one of the three countries will be regarded as an attack against all three, while Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry has described the pact as defensive in nature and intended to strengthen collective deterrence.
The commanders also expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and condemned attacks attributed to the Houthis against the Kingdom, while reiterating Pakistan’s stated commitment to the security and sanctity of the holy sites.
Kashmir Issue
The participants reiterated Pakistan’s position that the Kashmir dispute should be resolved in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
Modernisation And Operational Readiness
Field Marshal Asim Munir directed formations to continue enhancing defence capabilities through the acquisition of modern technology, improved training and greater integration across different domains of warfare.
The forum also reaffirmed that Pakistan’s Armed Forces remain prepared to safeguard the country’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national security, with the statement highlighting the role of continued public support.
Source: Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), as reported by Pakistani media on October 2, 2026.
