Khawaja Asif Lauds Trump-Munir Meeting, Calls for Enhanced Pakistan-US Ties

As President Donald Trump and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir convened at the White House, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has hailed the meeting as a “noteworthy development,” encouraging Pakistan to capitalize on the opportunity for the betterment of the region.

During his appearance on the news program “Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath,” Asif remarked that the current warmth in Pakistan-US relations is unprecedented.

Acknowledging a question regarding the historical perspective of the US viewing Pakistan primarily through a national security lens, the defense minister conceded that military ties have largely shaped the dynamics between the two nations.

Asif articulated his support for a more comprehensive relationship, encompassing trade and diverse sectors.

“If our defense relationship presents a favorable chance, then Pakistan should leverage it for the advancement of this region,” he stated.

He further noted that the meeting between Trump and Field Marshal Munir, arranged in advance, signifies a substantial achievement during the army chief’s visit to the US.

Asif emphasized that advancements in bilateral relations would also exert a positive influence on the region. He suggested that Pakistan should utilize this chance to facilitate a significant role for American leadership in the region’s progress.

Addressing the Israel-Iran tensions, the defense minister anticipated that President Trump would address the matter. He also suggested that Field Marshal Munir could be instrumental in easing the tensions between Israel and Iran.

Asif posited that Trump’s previous role in mediating the Pakistan-India conflict could potentially be replicated in this scenario.

Field Marshal Munir’s engagement with President Trump over lunch at the White House is regarded as a ‘constructive move’ toward reinforcing bilateral relations between Islamabad and Washington.

The exclusive meeting between COAS Munir and Trump occurred within the White House Cabinet Room.

This development follows heightened bilateral cooperation at the government echelon this year. The US president previously facilitated a ceasefire between Pakistan and India amidst hostilities and extended an offer to resolve the longstanding Kashmir issue.

Islamabad aims to fortify its relationship with Washington grounded in geopolitical realities, mutual confidence, and a development-focused alliance.

COAS Munir is also slated to engage with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth during his US visit.