RAWALPINDI (MNN); A visiting delegation of US congressmen acknowledged Pakistan’s critical contribution to regional peace and stability during a meeting with Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of the Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi on Monday.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), US House of Representatives members Ryan Keith Zinke of Montana and Michael James of Washington held detailed discussions with the military leadership on regional security, bilateral defence cooperation, economic collaboration and avenues for strengthening trade and investment ties.
The visiting lawmakers recognised Pakistan’s role in promoting regional stability and appreciated the country’s economic resilience. Field Marshal Asim Munir highlighted Pakistan’s vast economic potential, stressing that sustainable regional peace depends on economic growth, enhanced trade, connectivity and structural reforms designed to create a business-friendly environment and attract foreign investment.
Both sides also explored opportunities for expanding private-sector partnerships, boosting bilateral trade and deepening economic engagement between Pakistan and the United States. The US delegation thanked Pakistan’s military leadership for its hospitality and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening commercial, institutional and economic relations between the two countries.
During their visit to Islamabad, the lawmakers expressed optimism about the future of Pakistan-US relations. Michael James said bilateral ties were expected to grow stronger, while Ryan Zinke described the relationship as being at its strongest in recent years.
The delegation also visited Lok Virsa Museum, the Pakistan Monument, Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort and the mausoleum of Allama Iqbal. During their tour of the Punjab Safe Cities Authority, they were briefed on modern policing, surveillance and public safety systems. The lawmakers praised Lahore’s centralised security infrastructure and expressed appreciation for Punjab’s initiatives in education, tourism and transport.
The US lawmakers further commended Pakistan’s constructive diplomatic efforts in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran. Pakistan and the US are currently exploring greater cooperation in critical minerals, energy, information technology and other emerging economic sectors, while Islamabad continues to seek improved access for Pakistani exports to the American market. The United States remains Pakistan’s largest single-country export destination, while Pakistan is one of the largest importers of US cotton.
General Aamer Raza Assumes Command as CNSC
Separately, Field Marshal Asim Munir met newly promoted four-star General Aamer Raza at GHQ following his appointment as Commander of the National Strategic Command (CNSC).
According to ISPR, the Field Marshal congratulated General Raza on assuming his new responsibilities. Upon his arrival at GHQ, the newly appointed CNSC was presented with a guard of honour. He also laid a floral wreath at Yadgar-i-Shuhada and offered prayers for the country’s martyrs.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had announced General Raza’s promotion and appointment last week, congratulating him and expressing confidence in his ability to shoulder the important responsibility.
General Raza is a recipient of the Hilal-i-Imtiaz (Military) and Sitara-i-Basalat. The office of Commander of the National Strategic Command was established under the 27th Constitutional Amendment, replacing the nuclear command responsibilities previously held by the abolished Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC). Under the constitutional changes, the CNSC is appointed on the recommendation of the Chief of Defence Forces, a position first held by Field Marshal Asim Munir following the amendment’s enactment.
