NEW YORK, Sunday, June 15, 2025 (WNP): Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir received a high-profile welcome in the United States with a digital appreciation campaign launched on the iconic Times Square billboard in New York City, marking the beginning of his week-long official visit.
The campaign, which will run throughout the week, features images of General Munir—who was recently elevated to the rank of Field Marshal—alongside the Pakistani flag and visuals showcasing Pakistan’s commitment to education, technology, and peace.
The promotional video also includes scenes of General Munir meeting U.S. senators and interacting with Pakistani children, reflecting his efforts to project a progressive image of Pakistan.
According to diplomatic sources, the visit is taking place on the invitation of the U.S. military leadership and aims to enhance bilateral defense and strategic cooperation.
In anticipation of General Munir’s arrival in Washington, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander General Michael Kurilla praised the Pakistani military’s counterterrorism efforts, particularly in the fight against Daesh-Khorasan.
Testifying before the House Armed Services Committee, General Kurilla called Pakistan a “phenomenal partner in the counterterrorism world,” highlighting its intelligence collaboration with the U.S. and operations targeting Daesh-K affiliates.
“Through a phenomenal partnership with Pakistan, they have gone after Daesh-Khorasan, killing dozens of them. They have captured at least five high-value individuals, thanks to our intelligence-sharing relationship,” Kurilla said.
He specifically cited the arrest of Mohammad Sharifullah, also known as Jafar, allegedly involved in the 2021 Kabul airport suicide bombing that killed 13 American troops and over 160 civilians. “The first person Munir called after the arrest was me. He said, ‘I’ve caught him and am willing to extradite him to the U.S.—please inform the Secretary of Defense and the President,’” Kurilla added.
General Munir’s visit is seen as a significant development in Pakistan-U.S. military ties, especially in light of evolving regional security dynamics and Islamabad’s efforts to reposition itself as a constructive global player.
