Accessibility links

Breaking News

Pakistan Army Chief Backs Peace Talks


Pakistani Army Chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani
Pakistani Army Chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani
The head of Pakistan's military has said the army supports the government's policy of dialogue with Islamic militants.

General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani made the comments at the Pakistan Military Academy in Abbottabad on October 12.

He said the army would be "more than happy“ if negotiations lead to peace.

But he warned that the military had the ability to handle the issue by force if needed.

Kayani, who is to retire as Pakistan's army chief in November, also cautioned that any solution to the Islamic militancy should adhere to the country's constitution.

READ NEXT: Pakistani Taliban Splinter Groups Dampen Prospects For Peace Talks

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has announced plans to stage talks with the Taliban to end years of fighting that has killed thousands of people.

The negotiations have made little progress so far.

Based on reporting by AP, dpa, and AFP

RFE/RL has been declared an "undesirable organization" by the Russian government.

If you are in Russia or the Russia-controlled parts of Ukraine and hold a Russian passport or are a stateless person residing permanently in Russia or the Russia-controlled parts of Ukraine, please note that you could face fines or imprisonment for sharing, liking, commenting on, or saving our content, or for contacting us.

To find out more, click here.

XS
SM
MD
LG