Pakistan hosts regional defence huddle

Pakistan on Saturday hosted the Regional Chiefs of Defence Staff Conference, bringing together senior military leaders from the United States, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan in what is being hailed as a significant step towards strengthening regional security cooperation and military diplomacy.

Organised under the theme "Strengthening Bonds, Securing Peace", the high-profile gathering aimed at reinforcing security collaboration, enhancing joint training initiatives, and sharing best practices in counterterrorism and other defence-related areas, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir formally welcomed the delegations and reiterated Pakistan's commitment to regional stability.

"In an era defined by transnational threats and complex hybrid challenges, deeper military-to-military cooperation, strategic dialogue, and mutual trust are imperative. Pakistan remains committed to working with partner nations for a secure and prosperous region," the COAS remarked.

The participating defence chiefs held detailed discussions on regional security dynamics, counterterrorism cooperation, evolving strategic trends in the central and South Asia, and coordinated humanitarian responses during crises.

The delegates also expressed a shared resolve to uphold peace, respect national sovereignty, and confront common threats, including terrorism, cyber insecurity, and violent extremism.

Participants commended Pakistan's leadership and hospitality, terming the conference an important step in fostering inclusive and forward-looking defence diplomacy.

The event underscored Pakistan's continued role as a key player in shaping a secure, interconnected, and cooperative regional security environment, anchored in mutual interests and regional solidarity.

The development is seen as yet another sign of the increasing profile of Pakistan both at the regional and international fronts.

Observers believe that Pakistan seems to be playing its cards well as it is currently having engagement with all big powers and other regional players.

The army chief was in Beijing earlier this week where he held a series of meetings with the top Chinese civil and military leadership. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday held a meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington, highlighting Pakistan's diplomatic success.

Secretary Rubio appreciated Pakistan's continued efforts to seek a mediation between the US and Iran while also lauded Islamabad for preserving regional stability.

Foreign Minister Dar told the Atlantic Council later that Pakistan wanted to play a role of bridge between the US and China. He recalled that Pakistan in the past brought these two powers close and was ready to play that role again.