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February 21, 2025: Islamabad: – Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir is on an official visit to the United Kingdom (UK), where he was briefed on the British Army’s modernization initiatives, including the Deep Recce Strike Brigade. The visit, undertaken at the invitation of Chief of the General Staff of the UK Army General Sir Roland Walker, highlights growing military ties between the two nations.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), General Munir visited Warminster and Larkhill Garrisons, where he was shown advancements in military technology, including artificial intelligence (AI) and uncrewed systems. The British Army presented its latest strategic and operational developments to the visiting Pakistani delegation.
Keynote Address at Sandhurst Conference
General Munir participated in the 7th Regional Stabilisation Conference at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, where he delivered a keynote address titled “The Emerging World Order and Pakistan’s Future Outlook.”
The annual conference serves as a platform for fostering military dialogue between Pakistan and the UK, bringing together civil and military policymakers and representatives from prominent think tanks. This year’s discussions focused on evolving geopolitical trends and strategies for regional stability.
During his UK visit, Pakistan COAS General Asim Munir also held meetings with senior British officials, including UK Chief of Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, British Army Chief of General Staff General Sir Roland Walker, and UK National Security Adviser Jonathan Nicholas Powell. His discussions covered a wide range of issues, including military cooperation, security challenges, and regional stability.
Additionally, the COAS met UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper during his visit to discuss common security challenges and ways to strengthen collaboration between the two countries.
Ceremonial Honors and Military Engagements
On February 19, General Munir was accorded a ceremonial guard of honor at the Royal Horse Guards Parade Ground. The event, featuring an immaculately turned-out British military contingent, marked a gesture of respect and recognition for the Pakistan Army chief.
The visit also included tours of key British Army units, including the Land Warfare Centre and the 1st Strike Brigade, where General Munir was briefed on the modernization and operational strategies of the UK military.
Pakistan Army’s Stance Against Extremism
In a separate development, General Asim Munir reiterated Pakistan Army’s commitment to eradicating extremism. Addressing students at GHQ, Rawalpindi, he stated:
“Pakistan Army is actively fighting against miscreants and Khawarij elements. Islam has given clear directives regarding such troublemakers who distort its teachings.”
The statement underscores the military’s resolve to counter extremist threats and maintain internal security.
Political Reactions to COAS’s UK Visit
Meanwhile, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar on Thursday issued a stern warning against those protesting and running social media campaigns against General Munir’s visit.
Tarar stated: “The entire world recognizes the professional capabilities of the Pakistan Army, including its officers and cadets. However, it seems that the tribute and honor given to the Army Chief have unsettled the ‘Tehreek-e-Inteshar’.”
Referring to the opposition party, he said: “It is similar to how they are stunned by Pakistan’s progress under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.”
He further emphasized that legal action would be taken against those harming Pakistan’s national interests, asserting that “the law will take its course.”
Also See: DG ISPR on Security of Pakistan in 2024
Pakistan-UK Military Cooperation
Pakistan and the UK have a longstanding defense partnership, with Pakistani officers regularly undergoing training at Sandhurst and the Royal College of Defence Studies. Both countries have also cooperated closely on counterterrorism and security initiatives over the years.
Last August, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Sahir Shamshad Mirza met with British military leaders to enhance defense and security collaboration. General Munir’s current visit reinforces these ties and signals continued engagement between the two armed forces.
The Takeaway
General Asim Munir’s visit to the UK highlights Pakistan’s ongoing military diplomacy and commitment to international security cooperation. His engagements with British officials, participation in high-level discussions, and insights into the British Army’s modernization efforts reinforce the strategic partnership between the two nations.
As the global security landscape evolves, Pakistan’s military leadership remains focused on navigating emerging challenges while enhancing bilateral and multilateral collaborations.
