Field Marshal Asim Munir strengthens Pakistan-US defence ties during US visit

Rawalpindi: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir conducted a series of high-level meetings with senior political and military leadership during his official visit to the United States, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated on Sunday.

The visit, aimed at strengthening bilateral military cooperation and regional security collaboration, included engagements with top US military officials and members of the Pakistani diaspora.

While in Tampa, Field Marshal Munir attended the retirement ceremony of General Michael E. Kurilla, outgoing Commander of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), and the Change of Command Ceremony, where Admiral Brad Cooper assumed command. The COAS commended General Kurilla’s leadership and valuable contributions to enhancing Pakistan-US military ties. He also expressed confidence in continued cooperation under Admiral Cooper to address shared security concerns.

COAS Munir also held a meeting with General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, where both sides discussed matters of mutual professional interest. During their interaction, the COAS extended an invitation to General Caine to visit Pakistan.

On the sidelines of these engagements, Field Marshal Munir interacted with Chiefs of Defence from friendly nations, further reinforcing international military partnerships.

During an interactive session with the Pakistani diaspora in the US, the army chief urged overseas Pakistanis to remain optimistic about the country’s future and to play a proactive role in promoting investment in Pakistan. Members of the diaspora pledged continued support for Pakistan’s development and progress.

The visit builds on an earlier official trip to the US in June, during which Field Marshal Munir held a two-hour luncheon meeting with President Donald Trump. Discussions between the two leaders spanned a wide range of areas, including trade, economic development, mining, artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency, and emerging technologies.

Following that visit, Pakistan and the United States reached a significant trade agreement, which Trump later confirmed on social media. He announced that both countries would collaborate on developing Pakistan’s oil reserves and were in the process of selecting an oil company to lead the venture.

In recognition of General Kurilla’s role in promoting regional peace and bolstering Pakistan-US defence ties, President Asif Ali Zardari conferred the Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military) on him during his June visit to Pakistan. During that trip, Gen. Kurilla also held comprehensive discussions with Pakistani civil and military leadership, including President Zardari and COAS Munir, covering regional security, defence cooperation, and counterterrorism efforts.