In an official visit to the United States, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir has articulated his profound appreciation for the pivotal role played by overseas Pakistanis as ambassadors of their homeland.
This commendation was shared by the military’s media wing on Tuesday, highlighting how these expatriates serve as vibrant representatives of Pakistan.
Field Marshal Munir touched down in Washington on Sunday for a crucial five-day mission dedicated to bolstering military and strategic alliances between Pakistan and the United States. This visit has been confirmed by diplomatic sources as a key moment in fortifying bilateral relations.
Despite the timing of his arrival, which coincides with the preparations for the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary celebrations on June 14, the visit is described as being purely bilateral and not directly connected to these commemorations.
During the visit, the COAS interacted with the overseas Pakistani community in Washington DC,” the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.
“During the interaction, the COAS expressed his deep appreciation for the vital and most significant role being played by overseas Pakistanis for being ambassadors of Pakistan,” the press release continued.
He acknowledged their contributions to Pakistan’s economy and global reputation through remittances, investments and higher achievements in other domains.
The ISPR added that COAS received a warm reception and welcome from the overseas Pakistanis, who gathered in large numbers to meet with the army chief.
The overseas Pakistanis shared their experiences and suggestions with the army chief. He emphasised the importance of engagement with the overseas Pakistanis, highlighting the need for continued collaboration and cooperation to address common challenges and promote cooperation.
“The interaction concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment, as the COAS and the overseas Pakistanis pledged to work together towards a more secure, prosperous, and resilient Pakistan,” the ISPR said.
Field Marshal Munir did not attend the military parade on the occasion of the US Army’s 250th anniversary celebrations, but some sources speculated that he had spent the last two days at the US Central Command’s headquarters in Tampa, Florida.
The sources had said that the army chief’s visit aims to reinforce military and strategic ties between Pakistan and the US, with meetings expected with senior US officials, including the Secretaries of Defence and State and senior US military commanders.