
Field Marshal Munir engages US think tanks on Pakistan's role in global peace
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During his official visit to the United States for a five-day official visit aimed at reinforcing military and strategic ties between Pakistan and the United States, Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, held a detailed and candid exchange with senior scholars, analysts, policy experts, and international media representatives in Washington DC, according to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
Engaging with prominent US think tanks and strategic affairs institutions, the COAS presented Pakistan's principled position on key regional and global matters, deepening mutual understanding of the country's strategic perspective.
Read: Trump claims credit for India-Pakistan ceasefire despite Modi's denial
US President Donald Trump said it was an honour to meet COAS Munir during a luncheon held at the White House on Wednesday.In his remarks, Field Marshal Munir reiterated Pakistan's steadfast commitment to regional peace and a rules-based international order.
He referenced key military operations, including Maarka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, and addressed Pakistan's counter-terrorism efforts, highlighting the destabilising role of certain regional actors employing terrorism as a component of hybrid warfare.
Read More: Trump calls meeting COAS Munir an honour at White House luncheon
He emphasised Pakistan's frontline role in the global war on terror, citing the country's significant human and economic sacrifices for global security.
The COAS also spotlighted Pakistan's untapped potential in information technology, agriculture, and mining, inviting global partners to invest in these sectors for mutual benefit.
Also Read: Trump hosts Field Marshal Asim Munir in unprecedented White House meet
He elaborated on Pakistan's balanced and lawful approach to regional and global conflicts, advocating for diplomacy and cooperative security frameworks.
The long-standing Pakistan–U.S. relationship was also reviewed, with a focus on counter-terrorism, regional stability, and economic growth.
Participants appreciated the transparency and strategic clarity in the COAS's views. The session was widely regarded as a meaningful contribution to strengthening the US-Pakistan strategic dialogue.
Yesterday, During his two-hour meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir discussed a wide range of issues, focusing on expanding bilateral cooperation in trade, artificial intelligence, energy, cryptocurrency, and emerging technologies, according to a statement from the (ISPR).
The two leaders also exchanged views on regional security matters, including counter-terrorism efforts, the recent ceasefire between Pakistan and India, and rising tensions in the Middle East.

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