Islamabad:
Pakistan and the US have identified counter-terrorism operations and defense cooperation as key areas of cooperation during Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir’s maiden visit to the US, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) informed on Friday.
“Both countries reiterated their intention to explore ways to enhance dialogue and expand the scope of mutually beneficial engagement,” the Army’s media wing said.
The visit comes at a time of increasing terrorist attacks, in which around 30 security personnel have lost their lives in separate incidents.
During his visit, the COAS met key US government and military officials during his ongoing visit. These include US Secretary of State Antony J Blinken, Defense Secretary General (Ret) Lloyd J Austin, Under Secretary Victoria Nuland, Deputy National Security Advisor Jonathan Finer and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Charles Q Brown.
According to the ISPR, matters of bilateral interests, global and regional security issues and ongoing conflicts were discussed. ISPR said both sides agreed to continue engagement to explore possible avenues of bilateral cooperation in pursuit of common interests.
Reading US ‘strongly condemns’ terrorist attack in DI Khan
“The COAS underlined the importance of understanding each other’s perspectives on regional security issues and developments affecting strategic stability in South Asia. In this context, the COAS particularly highlighted the importance of resolving the Kashmir issue in accordance with international law and relevant UNSC resolutions,” the statement further said.
The COAS also interacted with the overseas Pakistani community at a reception organized by the Pakistan Embassy.
Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir addressed the Pakistani community at a reception organized by the Pakistani Embassy in the US. Photo: ISPR
ISPR said General Munir “appreciated the positive role being played by the Pakistani foreign community for the progress and development of the country”.
Appreciating the efforts of the Pakistani expatriates, the Army chief encouraged them to invest in the country through the Special Investment Facility Council (SIFC), “already showing success in various dimensions,” the ISPR said.
The COAS also highlighted that the US is the largest export market for Pakistan, accounting for 21.5% of the country’s total exports, dispelling rumors about special screening, visa denial and detention.
“Pakistani expatriates are held in high esteem anywhere across the world as they are ambassadors of Pakistan and make significant contributions to Pakistan in various fields,” the Army chief said.
The ISPR said the Pakistani community “expressed its pride in the role and contribution of the Pakistani Army to the well-being of Pakistan”.
COAS also met Mr. Tanveer Ahmed who donated a huge amount to NUST for IT development in Pakistan.
