Pakistan hosts regional chiefs of defence staff conference

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan hosted the Regional Chiefs of Defence Staff Conference in Islamabad today, drawing participation from senior military leadership of the United States, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, formally welcomed the delegations and reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to peace, regional stability, and constructive international partnerships.

“In an era defined by transnational threats and complex hybrid challenges, the importance of military cooperation, strategic dialogue, and mutual trust cannot be overstated,” the Army Chief said. He reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to foster a secure, stable, and prosperous regional environment through collaboration with partner nations.

The high-level conference featured comprehensive discussions on the evolving security landscape in Central and South Asia, including joint military training, counterterrorism cooperation, and strategic coordination.

Participants also engaged in dialogue on emergency response mechanisms, cyber threats, and countering violent extremism. The delegations collectively emphasized their shared commitment to regional peace, national sovereignty, and combating common security threats.

According to ISPR, the visiting military leaders praised Pakistan’s leadership, hospitality, and its efforts to promote inclusive, enduring defence diplomacy.

Held under the theme “Strong Connections, Sustainable Peace,” the conference aimed to deepen security cooperation, advance joint training programs, and facilitate the exchange of best practices in defence and counterterrorism.

The conference also highlighted the importance of multilateral military engagement in addressing non-traditional security challenges such as climate-related disasters, cyber warfare, and disinformation campaigns. Participants acknowledged that such challenges require coordinated regional strategies and proactive military-to-military collaboration.

This landmark gathering marks a significant step forward in Pakistan’s efforts to promote strategic harmony and military diplomacy in the region. It reaffirms Islamabad’s role as a bridge between South and Central Asia, offering a platform for dialogue and cooperative security among key regional stakeholders.