For the first time in twenty years, a general retired on time (without seeking extension of tenure) with General Sharif's retirement. General Sharif said that he was "ready to serve Pakistan" even after his retirement. General Sharif left a respected legacy in Pakistan. He is widely credited with reducing terrorism inside the country; violence in the country was reduced to its lowest level since 2006, with an overall decline of 80% in terrorist attacks under his tenure.
