Field Marshal Asim stresses deeper military ties amid hybrid threats

RAWALPINDI: Field Marshal Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has said that in an era defined by transnational threats and complex hybrid challenges, the imperative for deeper military-to-military cooperation, strategic dialogue and mutual trust is paramount.

He was addressing the Pakistan-hosted Regional Chiefs of Defence Staff Conference, which was participated by senior military leadership from the USA, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan here on Saturday. Field Marshal Asim Munir said Pakistan remains fully committed to working with partner nations to build a secure and prosperous regional environment.

The landmark multilateral engagement marked a significant stride toward advancing regional security cooperation, military diplomacy and strategic dialogue among participating nations, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.

Held under the theme “Strengthening Bonds, Securing Peace”, the conference sought to reinforce security collaborations, enhance training initiatives and facilitate the exchange of best practices in counterterrorism and other defence and security endeavours.

Field Marshal Asim Munir formally welcomed the distinguished defence delegations and reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to peace, stability and constructive engagement across the region.

The high-level dialogue featured comprehensive exchanges on regional security dynamics, the evolving strategic environment in Central and South Asia, and the necessity of joint training initiatives, counter-terrorism cooperation and coordinated humanitarian responses during crises.

Delegates collectively reaffirmed their shared resolve to uphold peace, respect, national sovereignty, and confront common security threats including terrorism, cyber insecurity and violent extremism among others.

Participants commended Pakistan’s leadership, hospitality, and initiative in fostering such inclusive and forward-looking defence diplomacy.

The strategic convergence reflects Pakistan’s enduring commitment to a secure, interconnected, and cooperative region, anchored in shared security interests and regional solidarity.

Separately, Pakistan conferred Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military) upon General Michael E Kurilla, Commander of United States Central Command (USCENTCOM), in recognition of his exemplary service and pivotal role in advancing enduring military cooperation between Pakistan and the United States.

In a formal ceremony held at the Aiwan-e-Sadr, President Asif Ali Zardari conferred the decoration upon General Kurilla, acknowledging his outstanding contributions to regional security and his dedicated efforts in strengthening strategic defence ties between the two countries.

General Kurilla’s visionary leadership has been instrumental in fostering mutual understanding, enhancing defence collaboration, and deepening counterterrorism cooperation between the Pakistan Armed Forces and USCENTCOM, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.

The ISPR said that his consistent engagement reflects a profound respect for Pakistan’s central role in promoting peace and stability across the region.

The conferment of this distinguished honour reflects Pakistan’s deep appreciation for General Kurilla’s unwavering support and affirms the growing depth of the bilateral military partnership.

During his visit, General Kurilla held detailed meetings with senior Pakistani civil and military leadership, including the President of Pakistan and Field Marshal Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff. Discussions encompassed regional security, military-to-military engagement and joint efforts to combat terrorism and emerging transnational threats.

The high-level recognition underscores the enduring strategic relationship between Pakistan and the US and reaffirms their shared commitment to regional peace, security, and long-term defence cooperation.

On arrival at the Presidency, General Kurilla was presented with a tri-services Guard of Honour.