RAWALPINDI; Field Marshal Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has emphasized the critical need for enhanced military-to-military cooperation, strategic dialogue, and mutual trust in today’s landscape marked by transnational threats and hybrid challenges.
Speaking at the Regional Chiefs of Defence Staff Conference—hosted by Pakistan on Saturday—Field Marshal Munir highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to working alongside partner nations in fostering a secure and prosperous regional environment. The event saw participation from senior defence leaders of the United States, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the multilateral conference represented a major step forward in strengthening regional military cooperation, advancing defence diplomacy, and promoting strategic coordination among participating countries.
Held under the theme “Strengthening Bonds, Securing Peace”, the conference focused on expanding joint security initiatives, improving military training, and sharing best practices in counterterrorism and broader defence cooperation.
Welcoming the visiting delegations, Field Marshal Munir reiterated Pakistan’s enduring dedication to regional peace, stability, and constructive defence engagement. The high-level conference included in-depth discussions on evolving security dynamics across Central and South Asia, and emphasized the importance of unified responses through joint training, counterterrorism partnerships, and humanitarian collaboration in times of crisis.
All participating nations jointly reaffirmed their resolve to uphold peace, respect national sovereignty, and confront shared security challenges such as terrorism, cyber threats, and violent extremism. Delegates also lauded Pakistan’s leadership, hospitality, and initiative in leading this inclusive platform for regional defence dialogue.
This convergence of strategic interests reflects Pakistan’s long-standing vision for a stable, interconnected region built on collective security and mutual cooperation.
Separately, Pakistan conferred the Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military) on General Michael E. Kurilla, Commander of United States Central Command (USCENTCOM), in recognition of his significant contributions toward deepening US-Pakistan military ties.
At a formal ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr, President Asif Ali Zardari presented the prestigious honour to General Kurilla for his outstanding leadership in fostering enduring defence collaboration and advancing regional security. The ISPR acknowledged his role in boosting mutual trust, enhancing counterterrorism efforts, and reinforcing strategic defence cooperation between Pakistan’s Armed Forces and USCENTCOM.
General Kurilla’s consistent engagement with Pakistan reflects his deep appreciation of the country’s key role in promoting regional stability. His recognition underscores the growing depth of the Pakistan-US defence partnership and affirms both sides’ shared commitment to long-term military cooperation and peace in the region.
During his visit, General Kurilla held wide-ranging meetings with senior civilian and military leadership, including President Zardari and Field Marshal Asim Munir. The discussions spanned regional security issues, operational collaboration, and collective responses to emerging transnational threats.
General Kurilla was also presented with a tri-services Guard of Honour upon arrival at the Presidency.
