ISLAMABAD: General Michael E. Kurilla, Commander of the United States Central Command (USCENTCOM), has been conferred the Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military), one of Pakistan’s highest military honours.
The award was given in recognition of his significant role in enhancing counterterrorism cooperation and strengthening defence ties between Pakistan and the United States.
President Asif Ali Zardari presented the award during a formal ceremony at Aiwan-e-Sadr, where General Kurilla was also accorded a Tri-Services Guard of Honour. The prestigious decoration acknowledges his exemplary service, strategic foresight, and sustained efforts to promote regional peace and security.
According to a statement issued by the Presidency, General Kurilla’s leadership has been “instrumental in deepening military collaboration, fostering mutual trust, and advancing joint counterterrorism initiatives between USCENTCOM and the Pakistan Armed Forces.”
Throughout his tenure, General Kurilla has led efforts to bolster intelligence sharing, coordinate operational planning, and expand joint training aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and addressing transnational security threats. His close engagement with Pakistani military leadership has helped reinforce a shared commitment to eliminating extremism in the region.
During his visit, General Kurilla held high-level discussions with President Zardari and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. The meetings focused on regional security dynamics, border stability, and enhanced military-to-military engagement, particularly in the areas of counterterrorism and strategic deterrence.
