Pakistan’s military leadership reviews counterterrorism operations, internal stability, defence cooperation with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, and regional security at the 277th Corps Commanders Conference.
Pakistan’s military leadership has reaffirmed the armed forces’ readiness to protect the country’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national security, while calling for stronger counterterrorism operations, improved governance and greater coordination among law enforcement agencies.
The positions were outlined during the 277th Corps Commanders Conference, chaired by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi on Oct. 2, 2026, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The conference began with Fateha for members of the armed forces, law enforcement agencies and civilians who lost their lives defending the country. Participants paid tribute to the sacrifices of the fallen.
Counterterrorism and governance
The forum maintained that targeted operations against terrorism originating from Afghanistan were Pakistan’s legitimate right to defend itself. It also held the Taliban leadership responsible for the consequences of terrorism, alleging that terrorist groups were operating as instruments of India.
The military leadership praised law enforcement agencies for their sustained intelligence-based counterterrorism operations. However, participants stressed that eliminating terrorism required more than ground operations, calling for effective administrative measures and improvements in governance.
The forum described internal stability as critically important for Pakistan. It stated that any attempt to trigger violent unrest or create a situation similar to the May 9, 2023, events would be dealt with decisively under the law, without discrimination or hesitation.
The conference also called for continued efforts to strengthen intelligence-based operations and directed formations to enhance their defence capabilities through modern technology, training and the integration of capabilities across all dimensions of warfare.
Field Marshal Munir said the armed forces, backed by the nation’s unwavering support, remained fully prepared to safeguard Pakistan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national security.
Defence cooperation with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye
The conference welcomed the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, describing it as an important development in strengthening longstanding strategic relations and expanding defence cooperation. The agreement, signed on Aug. 7, 2026, provides for collective defence, under which an armed attack against any one of the three countries is to be regarded as an attack against all three.
Participants strongly condemned Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia and expressed solidarity with the kingdom. They also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to protecting the sanctity and security of the Haramain Sharifain, the two holy mosques in Makkah and Madinah.
On Kashmir, the conference reiterated that the dispute should be resolved in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
The ISPR statement concluded by reaffirming the armed forces’ commitment to national defence and security amid continuing regional and internal security challenges.
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