Pakistan’s army chief meets diaspora in US amid signs of renewed ties with Washington

Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir met with members of the overseas Pakistani community in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday during an official visit to the United States, receiving a warm welcome from hundreds of diaspora members gathered for the interaction.

The meeting, which took place amid heightened regional tensions and a shifting global order, marked Munir’s first visit to the U.S. since his elevation to the rank of field marshal in May.

According to the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the army chief lauded the overseas Pakistanis for their significant contributions to the country’s economy and reputation, citing their role in sending remittances, investing in Pakistan, and excelling in global arenas.

“You are ambassadors of Pakistan,” Munir told the gathering, according to a statement issued by ISPR. He emphasized the importance of sustained engagement with the diaspora to address shared challenges and promote collaboration.

The community, in turn, praised the professionalism and bravery of the Pakistani armed forces during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos—which was launched in response to last month’s Indian missile strikes on Pakistani territory.

The interaction concluded with mutual pledges to work toward a more resilient and prosperous Pakistan.

While the event drew attention for its optics, the broader significance of Munir’s visit lies in the timing and possible strategic implications.

Low-key but high-stakes visit

Munir arrived in Washington, D.C., on June 15 for a visit expected to end on June 18.

Though Pakistani officials have kept the visit’s official agenda under wraps for security reasons, analysts view the trip as part of a larger recalibration of U.S.-Pakistan ties, which have been uneven in recent years amid Washington’s deepening partnership with India and growing concerns over China’s regional clout.

According to political analyst Dr Mohammad Taqi, such visits to CENTCOM are routine for top military officials from allied nations, and Munir’s stop in Tampa follows precedent.

CENTCOM Commander Gen. Michael Kurilla recently called Pakistan a “phenomenal partner” in counterterrorism during testimony before the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee.

Kurilla also credited Pakistan’s military with neutralizing Islamic State Khorasan (ISIS-K) militants near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border, comments that suggest continued U.S. confidence in Pakistan’s military leadership.