President Alvi hopes new COAS will reduce ‘trust deficit’ among institutions
In an interview with private news channel, President Dr Arif Alvi hoped that newly-appointed chief of the army staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir will reduce the ‘trust deficit’ among institutions.
Responding to the question about mediating between Imran Khan and new COAS, President Alvi said that Army’s new leadership has decided to remain apolitical as now responsibility rests on politicians.
Referring to PTI chairman Imran Khan’s statement about former army chief Gen (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa, President Arif Alvi said: “Khan’s comments on ex-COAS Gen Bajwa’s double-game would be based on his own experiences.”
Speaking on other matters, the president said he liked Army Chief Gen Asim Munir, adding that he would work to reduce mistrust between institutions.
“I have confidence that Pakistan’s armed forces are in good hands,” he asserted, adding that the new military leadership was committed to staying away from politics.
He said that the issue of the appointment of the new army chief was resolved amicably as those who were on merit assumed the office.
Shedding light on the ongoing debate between the PTI and the coalition government, the president said Finance Minister Ishaq Dar has the ‘talent to reconcile things’.
Meanwhile, President Alvi reiterated Dar’s stance that Pakistan will not default. “I gave a proposal to Dar regarding energy conservation. Markets should be closed earlier in order to save three-four thousand megawatts of electricity.”
