Gen Asim Munir Takes Maiden Journey to US as Army Chief
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir embarked on his inaugural official visit to the United States (US) since assuming office in November last year, as announced by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) in a statement on Sunday.
The military’s media wing provided a brief statement, outlining the army chief’s agenda, which includes meetings with senior military officials and other dignitaries in the US.
This visit follows closely on the heels of the two-day stay of US Special Representative for Afghanistan, Thomas West, in Pakistan. During his visit, West conveyed Washington’s commitment to supporting Pakistan in its fight against terrorism, particularly addressing challenges posed by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).
After concluding his visit to Islamabad, West shared details of his meetings with Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani, army chief Gen Munir, Pakistan’s Special Representative on Afghanistan Asif Durrani, and Interior Secretary Aftab Akbar Durrani on his official X account, formerly Twitter.
In a separate post, West emphasized Washington’s determination to stand by Islamabad in combating regional terrorism and also touched upon issues related to the ongoing repatriation of illegal foreigners.
The US envoy expressed gratitude for Islamabad’s collaboration on refugee protection issues, emphasizing collaboration with international organizations and advocating for humane and dignified treatment.
As part of discussions surrounding Afghan refugees in Pakistan, particularly those categorized as “illegal foreigners,” the US envoy dedicated valuable time to engage with the leadership of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Islamabad, addressing the support for the most vulnerable and at-risk Afghans.
