WASHINGTON: Field Marshal Asim Munir met President Donald Trump over lunch at the White House, which is being seen as a ‘positive step’ towards enhancing bilateral ties between Islamabad and Washington.
The rare meeting between Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Munir and Trump is taking place in the White House Cabinet Room.
The development comes after the two countries have seen increased bilateral ties at the government level this year. The US president also brokered a ceasefire between Pakistan and India after days of hostilities and offered to resolve the long-standing Kashmir dispute.
Islamabad is eyeing strong ties with Washington based on geopolitical realities, mutual trust and a partnership based on development.
COAS Munir is also expected to meet Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defense Pat Hegseth during his visit to the US.
Former Foreign Minister and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari termed the meeting between COAS Munir and President Trump as a “positive step in Pakistan-US relations”.
“Especially given the President’s role in brokering the ceasefire,” he wrote.
“Following Pakistan’s decisive victory in the recent five-day war, India has regrettably resisted all efforts for a lasting peace, including US-led diplomacy.”
“Pakistan neither seeks conflict nor are we eager for talks. But we recognize that peace is in the interest of both countries. There is no military solution to our disputes.”
“India’s weaponization of water, repression in Kashmir, and politics of terror are unsustainable positions. The way forward lies in honest diplomacy – not denial,” he concluded.
During his US visit, COAS Munir also met overseas Pakistanis in Washington DC a day earlier.
According to the ISPR, the army chief appreciated the contribution of the diaspora to the country’s economy and global reputation by playing an active role through remittances, investment and other high-profile achievements.
