Pak Army upholds soldierly attributes: COAS

RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Gen Syed Asim Munir has said that the Pakistan Army upholds the rich soldierly attributes of character, courage, and competence, which have been amply demonstrated by our men in the fight against terrorism.

Speaking at the 8th International Pakistan Army Team Spirit (PATS) competition, which was conducted at Kharian Garrison from April 14 to 18, the COAS appreciated the participating teams for their professionalism, physical and mental endurance, and high moral displayed during various stages of the exercise. The COAS graced the closing ceremony as chief guest.

Gen Munir highlighted that PATS is the right forum which appropriately combines professional military skills and tactical acumen of all participating soldiers fostering much needed team spirit in the face of evolving character of war.

Sixty hours long rigorous patrolling exercise was aimed at enhancing combat skills through sharing of innovative ideas and experiences by the participants of the forum, according to a statement issued by the ISPR. Seven teams from Pakistan Army along with a team from Pakistan Navy and fifteen teams from friendly countries, including Bahrain, Belarus, China Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Maldives, Morocco, Nepal, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Turkiye, United States of America, and Uzbekistan participated in the exercise.

Additionally representatives from Bangladesh, Egypt, Germany, Kenya, Myanmar and Thailand witnessed the exercise as observers. The exercise was conducted in the semi mountainous terrain of Punjab. Over the years, the exercise has gained much prominence as a very competitive professional military activity for the friendly countries. Towards the end, the COAS gave away individual and team awards to the participants of the exercise. International observers and defence attachés of participating countries also attended the ceremony and appreciated the professional conduct of the event.