KAKUL: Chief of General Staff, Afghan National Army, General Sher Mohammad Karimi Saturday stressed on close cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan to completely root out the menace of terrorism from the region.

Addressing the 132nd passing-out parade of Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) here, General Karimi said, “Every day, the world in our region, especially Afghanistan and Pakistan, today face the greater threats in dangers from individuals and groups that are not affiliated directly with any state, that is precisely why these are called non-state actors.”

He said both the countries faced the greatest threat from terrorists and militants, who did not recognize any boundaries and had no religious or moral values.

“This new enemy, which is the common enemy of all of us and of the state system in our region doesn’t recognize boundaries and is not bound by any religious or moral principles,” he said and added that they made nefarious designs to undermine the states and grab power.

Terming terrorists as the common enemies of both Pakistan and Afghanistan, he said the two countries must ensure support of the people to win the war against the terrorists and extremists.

He said that close result-oriented cooperation and coordination between the two countries was required to ultimately defeat this menace and threat of terrorism. “The ongoing strategic dialogue between our two countries gives me great hope and we all need to redouble our earnest sincere efforts so that we help realize the noble and rightful aspiration of millions of our citizens for a life of peace, security, dignity and prosperity,” he remarked.

General Karimi said the four-decade war had inflicted a huge loss to the entire region. The objective of peace was very much achievable, he added.

“Our region has suffered nearly from four decades of war and conflicts but I believe that peace in this region and most importantly for all of us assembled here in Afghanistan and Pakistan is eminently attainable,” he added.

Expressing optimism over ongoing Pak-Afghan strategic dialogue, he said it would help bring about peace and stability in the region. “We must not under any circumstances let this historic opportunity slip from our hands,” he added.

He appreciated the standard of professionalism acquired by the graduating cadets, specially the immaculate turn out and exuberance in drill movements and said he felt proud to attend the passing-out ceremony of Pakistani Army cadets.

“You and your future commanders will make a difference,” he said while congratulating the passing cadets. General Karimi said that Pakistan Army was one of the best armies of the world and thanked for its wonderful hospitality.

The chief guest awarded sword of honour to Academy Senior Under Officer, Zeeshan Sheheryar and President Medal Awarded to Battalion Senior Under Officer Faisal for their outstanding performance. It may be mentioned here that for the first time in history, an Afghan Army Chief participated in a passing out parade of Pakistan Military Academy.—APP