Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has termed the recent high-level meeting between Field Marshal Asim Munir and US President Donald Trump a “historic milestone” in Pakistan-US relations, calling it the most important turning point in their 78-year bilateral history.
In a statement shared on social media platform X and during a media interaction, the minister highlighted that this was the first time in history a Pakistani army chief was officially invited and hosted by a sitting US president, describing it as a diplomatic breakthrough that elevated Pakistan’s international standing.
“The way regional and international issues were discussed in this meeting underlined the importance of our beloved homeland on the global stage,” Khawaja Asif stated. “It was also acknowledged how Pakistan can play a constructive role in resolving key geopolitical challenges, including the Pak-India conflict, which once again gained international attention.”
The minister credited the success of this visit to the hybrid model of governance, saying the coordination between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir, and the strong ties between Islamabad and Rawalpindi, made possible the recent improvements in diplomacy, economy, and security.
“This is the success of our unified national approach,” Asif said. “The revival of the economy, India’s diplomatic defeat, and the enhancement of Pak-US relations are revolutionary changes that reflect a solid and stable civil-military partnership.”
He further noted that the statements issued by US officials after the meeting were encouraging, and demonstrated a renewed trust and willingness to engage with Pakistan on key strategic matters.
Khawaja Asif also highlighted the positive impact of the visit on Pakistan’s global reputation, stating that the country is now “making progress on military, diplomatic, and economic fronts simultaneously.”
In closing, the defense minister expressed hope for continued progress, saying, “May Allah grant us all the strength to serve Pakistan above personal and group interests. Our recent past shows signs of victory, and the future must be built on this momentum.”
On Wednesday evening, US President Donald Trump said that Pakistan “knows Iran better than we do,” as he confirmed discussing Iran-Israel tensions during his meeting with Pakistan’s army chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir at the White House.
Speaking to reporters following a high-level interaction, Trump emphasised Pakistan’s strategic importance in the region, particularly with regard to Tehran. “We spoke about the Iran-Israel issue. Pakistan understands Iran better than us — they’re a key player in regional peace,” he stated.
The rare one-on-one meeting, held in the Cabinet Room, was followed by a luncheon hosted by Trump in the army chief’s honour. A White House spokesperson confirmed that the luncheon was arranged to appreciate Pakistan’s role in regional stability and to acknowledge General Munir’s efforts in de-escalating tensions between nuclear-armed neighbours, Pakistan and India.
“It’s an honour to meet Field Marshal Asim Munir. I thanked him for not letting things spiral into war,” Trump said, referring to recent cross-border tensions that were defused diplomatically.
The two also discussed potential areas of economic cooperation, with Trump confirming that a trade agreement with Pakistan and India is currently under negotiation.
“We’re in early talks on trade — Pakistan’s concerns are being heard,” he said.
According to diplomatic sources, General Munir is also scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defence Secretary Pat Hegseth in the coming days. These engagements are being viewed in Islamabad as a significant diplomatic success, especially as they signal a revival in US-Pakistan strategic dialogue after a period of relative quiet.
Asked about possible diplomatic outcomes of the meeting, Trump said, “General Asim has played a strong role in lowering Pak-India tensions. We appreciate his leadership.”
Earlier, In a brief interaction with reporters, President Trump praised the Pakistani Army Chief, describing him as “an influential figure who played a critical role in de-escalating tensions between Pakistan and India.” The former US president also reiterated his admiration for Pakistan, calling it “an important nuclear country” and lauding the “good people of Pakistan.”
“This man [Field Marshal Munir] has been extremely effective in preventing war from Pakistan’s side,” Mr Trump said.
