US visit: Field Marshal Asim Munir calls Pakistani diaspora a ‘brain gain'

Dubai: Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir described his second visit to the United States in just six weeks as a ‘new dimension’ in Pakistan-US relations, signalling a fresh momentum towards constructive and sustainable cooperation.

Addressing a gathering of the Pakistani diaspora on Sunday in Tampa, Florida, the army chief hailed overseas Pakistanis as a “source of pride and dignity” and emphatically rejected the notion of a “brain drain,” instead calling it a “brain gain.” He urged expatriates to remain confident in Pakistan’s future and actively contribute by attracting investment to the homeland.

“It is an honour for me to address Pakistanis living in the US, who are as passionate and committed as those residing in Pakistan,” Field Marshal Munir said.

“Pakistan’s progress and prosperity are closely linked to the Pakistani diaspora, whose dedication has been evident through their support during natural disasters and beyond,” Munir added.

According to Pakistan television, Field Marshal Minir expressed Pakistan’s gratitude to US President Donald Trump for his strategic leadership that, according to Munir, helped avert war between Pakistan and India and prevented multiple global conflicts.

Highlighting counter terrorism efforts, Munir condemned terrorist groups operating from Afghanistan, including the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), referred to as “Fitna al-Khawarij” by the state. He declared that “there is no sympathy for terrorists, and they will face justice with full force.”

The army chief also underscored Pakistan’s ongoing economic diplomacy, noting that several memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with the US, China, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE are being implemented to boost investment and cooperation. He expressed optimism about a potential trade deal with the United States expected to bring significant economic benefits.

During his visit, the COAS attended the retirement ceremony of outgoing Commander of United States Central Command (Centcom), General Michael E. Kurilla, and welcomed his successor, Admiral Brad Cooper. He also met with Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine, inviting him to visit Pakistan to further bilateral military cooperation.

This visit follows Munir’s earlier official trip to the US in June, where he made history by meeting with then-President Donald Trump becoming the first serving Pakistani army chief to hold a face-to-face meeting with a sitting US president.

Field Marshal Munir’s engagements reflect a renewed phase in Pakistan-US relations, with both countries now pursuing deeper military and economic collaboration amid shared regional security concerns.