Pakistan hosts top military leaders from US, Central Asian states

ISLAMABAD

Pakistan hosted a high-level regional chiefs of defense staff conference on Saturday, bringing together senior military officials from the US, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

The conference, held in Islamabad under the theme "Strengthening Bonds, Securing Peace," centered on counterterrorism efforts, joint training programs, and military diplomacy, according to a Pakistani military statement.

“In an era defined by transnational threats and complex hybrid challenges, the imperative for deeper military-to-military cooperation, strategic dialogue, and mutual trust is paramount. Pakistan remains fully committed to working with partner nations to build a secure and prosperous regional environment,” said Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.

Participants discussed the changing security landscape in Central and South Asia, shared crisis response best practices, and pledged to maintain peace, sovereignty, and mutual trust.

Participants also reaffirmed their shared commitment to maintaining peace, respect, and national sovereignty while confronting common security threats such as terrorism, cyber insecurity, and violent extremism, among others.

They also praised Pakistan's leadership, hospitality, and initiative in promoting inclusive and forward-thinking defense diplomacy.