In less than two months Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir is visiting the United States once again and engaging in high-level meetings with senior American military and political leaders, reports Dawn.
This visit follows his previous five-day trip to the US in June, during which he made history by becoming the first serving Pakistani army chief to hold a face-to-face meeting with a sitting US President, Donald Trump, over a working luncheon. During that trip, Field Marshal Munir emphasised the “immense potential for a broader, multidimensional relationship between Pakistan and the United States, built on mutual respect and shared strategic interests.”
In his latest visit, Asim was in Tampa, Florida, where he attended the Retirement Ceremony of General Michael E Kurilla, outgoing Commander of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), and the Change of Command Ceremony marking the assumption of duties by Admiral Brad Cooper.
Field Marshal Munir praised General Kurilla’s “exemplary leadership” and “invaluable contributions” to strengthening bilateral military cooperation. He extended his best wishes to Admiral Cooper, expressing confidence in the continued collaboration between the two nations in addressing regional and global security challenges.
During the June visit, General Kurilla had described Pakistan as a “phenomenal partner” in counter-terrorism, particularly acknowledging its efforts in combating terrorism in Balochistan and confronting groups such as the Islamic State.
On this trip, Field Marshal Munir also met with Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine, where both leaders discussed matters of mutual professional and strategic interest. During the meeting, the Pakistan Army Chief extended a formal invitation to General Caine to visit Pakistan, which was warmly received.
The ongoing visit highlights Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen strategic military ties with the United States and deepen engagement with its overseas communities amid evolving regional dynamics.
Source: Dawn