PTBP Web Desk
Washington, D.C. – Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff (COAS), is currently on an official visit to the United States, where he has engaged in high-level meetings aimed at deepening US-Pakistan defence cooperation and encouraging economic ties through the Pakistani diaspora.
During his trip, the COAS met with senior political and military leaders, participated in significant military ceremonies, and held interactive sessions with Pakistani-Americans. His engagements reflect Pakistan’s commitment to advancing defence collaboration, strengthening bilateral ties, and promoting economic opportunities.
One of the highlights of the visit was his participation in a major event in Tampa, Florida — the Retirement Ceremony of outgoing Commander of United States Central Command (CENTCOM), General Michael E. Kurilla. This was followed by the Change of Command Ceremony, where Admiral Brad Cooper officially assumed command.
In his remarks, COAS Asim Munir praised General Kurilla’s exemplary leadership and his significant role in enhancing US-Pakistan military cooperation. He acknowledged Kurilla’s contributions in strengthening regional security and counterterrorism coordination.
Extending his congratulations to Admiral Brad Cooper, the COAS expressed confidence that under his command, the cooperation between CENTCOM and the Pakistan Army would remain strong. He emphasised the importance of joint efforts to address evolving global security challenges, especially in South Asia and the Middle East.
In another key engagement, COAS Asim Munir met with General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The discussion focused on matters of mutual professional interest, regional stability, and continued military collaboration.
During the meeting, the COAS invited General Caine to visit Pakistan, highlighting the importance of military-to-military exchanges in fostering trust and operational cooperation. On the sidelines of this engagement, the Pakistani Army Chief also interacted with Chiefs of Defence from friendly nations, further broadening Pakistan’s international military outreach.
A major aspect of COAS Asim Munir’s US visit was his interaction with the Pakistani diaspora. Addressing a large gathering, he spoke about Pakistan’s bright future and urged overseas Pakistanis to maintain their confidence in the country’s economic potential.
He encouraged the diaspora to play an active role in attracting foreign investment and supporting Pakistan’s development goals. This aligns with Pakistan’s ongoing initiatives to improve its investment climate and strengthen economic diplomacy.
The Pakistani community in the US reaffirmed their commitment to contributing to Pakistan’s growth, pledging to explore business ventures and opportunities that can benefit the nation’s economy.
The timing of this visit underscores the importance of Pakistan-US defence relations. With evolving geopolitical dynamics, Pakistan’s military leadership is actively engaging with its US counterparts to ensure continued cooperation in areas such as counterterrorism, regional stability, and defence technology sharing.
Such interactions also help maintain trust between the two countries, which is vital for tackling transnational threats and addressing security challenges in Afghanistan, the Middle East, and beyond.
The US and Pakistan have a long history of military collaboration, particularly in areas of counterterrorism operations, training exchanges, and regional security management. This visit by COAS Asim Munir serves as a reaffirmation of Pakistan’s commitment to these shared objectives.
Military analysts believe that this trip could open avenues for greater defence technology transfer, enhanced intelligence sharing, and more joint training exercises. By meeting both active and outgoing military commanders, the COAS is ensuring continuity in military dialogue between the two nations.
The Pakistani diaspora, especially in the United States, has long been an influential force in promoting bilateral trade and investment flows. COAS Asim Munir’s emphasis on their role in national development highlights a growing recognition within Pakistan’s leadership that overseas communities can be powerful economic catalysts.
Government initiatives such as the Roshan Digital Account and Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) already aim to attract investment from overseas Pakistanis. The COAS’s encouragement further reinforces these efforts, signaling a combined civil-military push towards economic revival.
