Musharraf reiterates 'Terrorism will be uprooted'
‘Pakistan Times’ Staff Report

MARDAN: President General Pervez Musharraf on Monday reiterating government’s resolve against extremism and terrorism vowed to continue the fight till elimination of this scourge.

Addressing a military darbar here at the Punjab Regimental Centre where 42 recruits were killed in a terrorist attack last Wednesday, the President said suicide attacks were against the spirit of Islam.

President Musharraf said if the government did not check the scourge of extremism and terrorism it could damage the country internally, however he expressed his government’s resolve to fight it with full force.

President Musharraf strongly condemned the incident and expressed his profound grief over the incident and loss of innocent lives. The President said the government was determined to fight extremism and terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

The President said the Pakistan Army was fully capable to take up this challenge and its morale was high.

He asked the nation to maintain unity and solidarity amongst its rank and file and to raise its voice against those who preach violence and hatred. He asked them to reject those who were trying in vain to impose their thoughts of extremism on others.

President Musharraf recalled the great sacrifices rendered by the Punjab regiment in the past and said it was the oldest formation of Pakistan Army with several medals of honour, including Nishan-e-Haider to its credit.

The President assured that the families of the martyrs would be well looked after by both the civil and military authorities. He said good care was being taken of the injured.

President also visited the site where soldiers of Punjab regiment were targeted in suicide attack. President was given briefing there.

He urged the jawans not to be deterred by such incidents and keep up their courage. He assured the armed forces of his full cooperation in campaign against the terrorism.

President said that investigations in Dargai incidents were underway and the elements found involved in this tragic incident would be soon exposed.

Corps Commander, Peshawar, Lt. Gen. Hamid and General Officer Commanding Maj. Gen. Arif received the President when he arrived at the Punjab Regimental Centre. Prayers were also offered for the martyrs.●