Asif says he has respect, not contempt for armed forces

Minister for Defence Khawaja Asif lamenting how an old speech of his had been presented out of context, asserted late on Friday that he respects and acknowledges the sacrifices made by the armed forces of Pakistan, Express News reported. In an attempt to ease tensions between the army and government, Asif said he was not trying to undermine the efforts of the armed forces, adding that some people were trying to create misconceptions by repeating a speech delivered many years ago. The defence minister added that that the army is an asset of the country and he is proud of the valour and sacrifices of the armed force personnel for the protection of Pakistan. He lamented that some people were trying to create differences between civil and military leadership when army is engaged on many fronts, adding this is not in the interest of the country. Earlier, there were reports of tension between the army and government after a speech of Asif from 2006 resurfaced and went viral on the social media in which Asif was seen heavily criticising the armed forces. During a visit to the headquarters of the Special Service Group (SSG) at Ghazi Base, Tarbela on April 7, 2014, Army Chief General Raheel Sharif had said that the army will uphold the sanctity of all institutions but will “resolutely preserve its own dignity and institutional pride”.