ISLAMABAD (The Thursday Times) — Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, is in the United States on an official visit that blends high-level defence diplomacy with community engagement. From formal military ceremonies in Tampa to closed-door meetings in Washington and outreach to Pakistani-Americans, the trip reflects a multi-pronged approach to maintaining and expanding Pakistan’s strategic footprint.
Marking a leadership change at Centcom
In Tampa, Munir attended the retirement ceremony of General Michael E. Kurilla, who stepped down as commander of the United States Central Command. The event also marked Admiral Brad Cooper’s assumption of command in a tightly choreographed changeover. The symbolism of the occasion was clear: Centcom remains a central channel for Pakistan-US defence coordination, and Munir’s presence underscored Islamabad’s stake in sustaining that link.
Strategic discussions behind closed doors
The Tampa ceremony was only the public face of the visit. Munir’s conversations with senior US officers covered the less visible but more consequential aspects of military cooperation — counterterrorism coordination, regional security postures, and maritime stability in shared operational zones. While neither side disclosed details, the sustained focus on practical defence collaboration suggests an interest in keeping military channels resilient despite broader geopolitical shifts.
High-level engagement in Washington
In Washington, Munir met General Dan Cane, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Their talks centred on professional areas of mutual interest, ranging from joint training to intelligence coordination. Munir extended an invitation for a reciprocal visit to Pakistan, signalling intent to deepen the personal-level trust that often underpins durable military alliances.
Networking with allied defence chiefs
Beyond scheduled meetings, Munir engaged informally with chiefs of defence from partner nations. These sideline conversations, often overlooked in official accounts, are where candid exchanges occur and trust is built. In a global environment of shifting alliances, cultivating such personal connections is as strategic as any formal accord.
Mobilising the Pakistani diaspora
Munir’s itinerary also included a dedicated session with the Pakistani-American community. His message was direct: invest in Pakistan’s future and take an active role in its economic trajectory. The gathering served as both a morale boost and a call to action, with attendees reaffirming their commitment to contribute to development initiatives back home.
