Mohsin Siddiqui (Chief Reporter)
General Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), currently on an official visit to the US, engaged in fruitful discussions with key US government and military officials. The meetings focused on bilateral interests, global and regional security matters, and ongoing conflicts.
COAS Gen Munir held discussions with prominent US figures, including Antony J Blinken, Secretary of State, General Lloyd J Austin (retired), Secretary of Defence, Victoria Nuland, Deputy Secretary of State, Jonathan Finer, Deputy National Security Adviser, and General Charles Q Brown, Chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Both sides expressed a commitment to sustaining engagement and exploring potential avenues for bilateral collaboration in pursuit of shared interests. Core areas of cooperation, identified during talks with defense officials, included counterterrorism cooperation and defense collaboration. There was a mutual intent to increase interaction and explore ways to expand the scope of mutually beneficial engagements.
Emphasizing the importance of understanding each other’s perspectives on regional security, COAS Gen Munir particularly highlighted the significance of resolving the Kashmir Issue in accordance with international law and relevant UNSC resolutions.
In a reception hosted by the Embassy of Pakistan, the COAS interacted with the Pakistani overseas community, acknowledging their positive role in the country’s progress. Discussions covered a range of topics, and COAS appreciated the efforts of the Pakistani diaspora. He encouraged diaspora members to invest through SIFC, highlighting its success in various dimensions.
General Syed Asim Munir clarified that the US is the largest export market for Pakistan, constituting 21.5% of total exports, dispelling rumors about special screening, visa denials, and detentions. He expressed admiration for the Pakistani diaspora as ambassadors of Pakistan, contributing significantly to the nation in various domains.
Members of the Pakistani community expressed pride in the role and contributions of the Pakistan Army. COAS extended good wishes to the Pakistani community and met with Tanweer Ahmed, who generously donated $9 million for NUST in IT development. The COAS appreciated Ahmed, acknowledging him as a hero contributing to Pakistan’s progress.
