Pakistan Army supports democracy, says Kayani

Rawalpindi, May 1 (ANI): As the political crisis in Pakistan intensifies, with the government and the opposition constantly clashing over various issues, Army Chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani has said the army supports the democratic process in the country.

"The priority of a democratic system is the welfare of the people, safeguarding their self-respect and establishing a society where justice is equal for all. This will strengthen national security," General Kayani said.

He said the armed forces believed in a strong democratic system and its continuity in the country, whose development and prosperity was linked with the respect of democratic values, reported The Express Tribune.

General Kayani said the Constitution had clearly determined the responsibilities and duties of national institutions and "it is imperative to fulfill our responsibilities in such a manner which improves our own and the country's image."

He said that campaigns were launched- including the Abbottabad raid and the Salala air raid - to undermine the sacrifices of Pakistan Army and to destabilise the country at the international level, which led to chaos and despondency in the country. However, he added that the armed forces are capable of protecting the country's sovereignty.

General Kayani also spoke about the exemplary sacrifices rendered by Pakistan and its security forces in the fight against militancy.

"Despite these sacrifices, our country is still at war," he said.

Speaking about dozens of troops trapped in an avalanche at Siachen Glacier, General Kayani assured the families that the ongoing search for the soldiers, who sacrificed their lives for the country, would continue till the last body was retrieved. (ANI)