Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir on Tuesday addressed the first-ever Overseas Pakistanis Convention in Islamabad, where he lauded the unwavering dedication of overseas Pakistanis, calling them the “ambassadors” and “shining light” of the nation.

In an emotionally charged speech, General Munir said he was “deeply moved” by the love and passion of Pakistanis living abroad. “Our feelings for you are even stronger,” he stated, assuring the overseas community that the Pakistan Army stands shoulder-to-shoulder with them.

Overseas Pakistanis brain gain, not brain drain

Taking a strong stand against negative narratives, the army chief rejected the notion of “brain drain”, asserting instead that overseas Pakistanis are the “best example of brain gain".

“You are not just representing Pakistan abroad — you are showcasing the brilliance, resilience, and talent of this great nation,” he said. “Hold your head high with pride, because you belong to a great and powerful country. We want to take Pakistan to the place that Quaid-e-Azam dreamed of."

Strong message to enemies and terrorists

Addressing national security challenges, General Asim Munir issued a resolute message to Pakistan’s enemies and terror networks, especially those targeting Balochistan.

“Do they really believe a handful of terrorists can decide Pakistan’s fate?” he asked. “Even 10 generations of terrorists cannot harm Balochistan or Pakistan. Balochistan is our destiny and the crown of our forehead.”

He reiterated the unbreakable bond between the people and the armed forces. “As long as the brave people of this country stand with the Pakistan Army, we can overcome any challenge with ease,” he declared. "As Muslims and Pakistanis, we are not afraid of adverse situations. We have never bowed down in the face of difficulties and difficulties, nor will we bow down."

United vision for progress and peace

General Munir emphasized the importance of national unity and gratitude. “Allah has blessed Pakistan with immense natural and human resources,” he said, “and we must be grateful for these blessings. The question is not when Pakistan will develop, but the real question is how fast it will develop."

Delivering a powerful message of resolve and national progress, the COAS said, “Today, we send a clear message: whatever stands in the way of Pakistan’s development, we will remove it together.”

Solidarity with Kashmir and Gaza

Reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering stance on global issues, General Munir called Kashmir the “jugular vein” of Pakistan and expressed full support for the Palestinian people. “The hearts of Pakistanis beat with the Muslims of Gaza,” he added.

Uplifting overseas communities through heritage and values

In his closing message to overseas Pakistanis, General Munir urged them to preserve and pass on the values of Pakistan to future generations. “No matter where you live, remember — your roots lie in a high civilization, noble ideology, and proud identity,” he said. “We have never bowed down before adversity, and we never will.”

The speech concluded with the slogan echoing through the convention hall: “Pakistan Hamesha Zindabad!”