COAS Field Marshal Asim Munir Strengthens Military and Diplomatic Engagements in U.S. Visit
Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir is on an official visit to the United States, where he has held high-level engagements with senior political and military leaders, as well as interactions with the Pakistani diaspora, according to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
During his visit, the COAS attended the retirement ceremony of outgoing U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander General Michael E. Kurilla and the change of command ceremony for Admiral Brad Cooper in Tampa. He lauded Gen Kurilla’s leadership and his role in advancing bilateral military cooperation, and extended best wishes to Admiral Cooper, expressing confidence in continued collaboration to address shared security challenges.
Gen Kurilla’s recent testimony has been widely viewed as a diplomatic win for Pakistan, countering persistent narratives from Indian lobbying groups portraying Islamabad as an unreliable partner in counterterrorism efforts. His remarks, which acknowledged Pakistan’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, may influence the tone of future U.S. policy in South Asia.
The COAS also met Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine to discuss matters of mutual professional interest, inviting him to visit Pakistan. On the sidelines, Field Marshal Munir held discussions with defence chiefs from friendly nations.
In a session with the Pakistani diaspora, the COAS encouraged confidence in Pakistan’s future and called on expatriates to contribute to investment and development initiatives. The diaspora, in turn, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the country’s progress.
Earlier in June, Field Marshal Munir attended a luncheon at the White House hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump. “It is an honour for me to meet Asim Munir,” Trump stated. “I invited him to thank him for not going to war. He deserves appreciation for helping secure the ceasefire.” The luncheon followed heightened tensions between Pakistan and India, both nuclear-armed neighbours experiencing a sharp escalation in hostilities this year.
