In a series of successful diplomatic initiatives, army chief General Asim Munir has prioritised securing peace not only within the country, but also across the region. This successful military diplomacy has laid a strong foundation for Pakistan's economic growth and paved the way for a prosperous and peaceful future.
The army chief held important meetings with the ambassadors of various countries, through which Pakistan has successfully sailed through the economic problems it was facing.
General Syed Asim Munir: One Year in Command
— SAMAA TV (@SAMAATV) December 11, 2023
With a focus on prioritizing peace, Army Chief has not only fostered stability in #Pakistan but has also contributed to regional harmony. #SamaaTV #COAS #PakArmy pic.twitter.com/Z0docq31WE
Key achievements:
- Improved relations with Saudi Arabia, UAE, and China: Through strategic meetings and collaborations, Gen Asim Munir has fostered stronger economic, military, and social ties with these key partners.
- Economic revival: The army chief's international tours also played an important role in reviving the economy and taking Pakistan to greater heights.
- Strengthened defence cooperation: In a very significant visit to Saudi Arabia, critical achievements were made during meetings with high-ranking officials in terms of mutual cooperation, military development, and investment in Pakistan.
- Regional peace and stability: During Gen Munir's visit to China, he held important meetings with military commanders with the aim of establishing peace and stability in the region and strengthening Pakistan-China military cooperation.
Highlights of international visits:
- Saudi Arabia: During his visit, the army chief secured significant investments for Pakistan, further strengthened bilateral ties, and discussed mutual cooperation in military development. Gen. Fayyad bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili of Saudi Arabia in his meeting with the army chief reiterated the strengthening of defense cooperation between the two countries.
- China: Discussions with Chinese officials focused on establishing regional peace, strengthening Pak-China military cooperation, and advancing the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
During the meeting with Chinese Deputy Prime Minister He Lifeng, important decisions were also made regarding trade, defense and especially CPEC. - Iran: During his visit to Iran, the army chief held meetings with the president, the supreme commander and top officials of the armed forces, which further strengthened the defense relations between the two countries. Detailed discussions were also held on the threats to the region, for which a full agreement was reached on border cooperation between the two countries.
- Uzbekistan: The army chief explored new avenues for further expansion of defence cooperation and intelligence sharing with Uzbekistan.
- Azerbaijan: The visit reaffirmed Azerbaijan's continued support for Pakistan's military leadership and explored new avenues for cooperation. Both sides expressed their determination to increase mutual cooperation to a new level.
- United States: During the meeting between US Central Command Commander General Michael Eric Corella and Gen Asim Munir, a detailed discussion was held on strengthening defense cooperation between the two countries. .
- Germany: Gen Munir and his German counterpart Lt Gen Alfons Mais committed to further expanding defence cooperation and acknowledged Pakistan's efforts in the fight against terrorism.
International recognition:
- The United States commended Pakistan's efforts to eradicate terrorism and its role for peace and stability in the region.
- Germany and Oman expressed appreciation for the professionalism of the Pakistan Army and its contributions to regional security.
- Saudi Arabia's armed forces lauded Pakistan's role in regional peace and stability.
- Major General Matar bin Salim bin Rashid al Balushi, in a meeting with Gen Munir, appreciated the role of the Pakistan Army in securing peace and stability in the region, especially in the war against terrorism.
- The commander of the Sri Lankan Army appreciated the professional character of the Pakistan Army in a meeting with the army chief. Moreover, the commander of Saudi Arabia's armed forces, Lt. Gen. Fahd bin Abdullah Mohammed Al-Mutair, also appreciated Pakistan's role in peace and stability in the region.
Recently, US Special Representative for Afghanistan Thomas West also discussed security threats related to the outlawed Taliban and Afghan refugees with Pakistan's top military leadership.
West said: "The US stands with Pakistan against terrorism in the region."
Looking ahead:
Army chief Gen Asim Munir's latest visit to the United States underscores Pakistan's commitment to bolstering strategic ties and collaborating on critical regional security issues. The visit is of utmost strategic importance, during which he will meet with the American military leadership and other members of the government.
This continued focus on diplomacy and international engagement is expected to further strengthen Pakistan's economic and security posture, ensuring a prosperous and peaceful future for the nation and the region.
