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ISLAMABAD, June 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In a closely watched meeting at the White House, Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, met with U.S. President Donald J. Trump. Analysts at the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) in Islamabad, have characterized this as a strategic reset for Pakistan.
Held over a luncheon in the Cabinet Room and followed by an extended session in the Oval Office, the meeting included Secretary of State Senator Marco Rubio, U.S. Special Representative for Middle Eastern Affairs Steve Witkoff, and Pakistan's National Security Advisor. Initially planned for an hour, the talks stretched over two hours, underscoring the depth of engagement. According to ISPR's official press release, the exchange between Field Marshal Munir and President Trump reflected a new level of mutual recognition, with both leaders exchanging commendations for each other's leadership. Munir conveyed the gratitude of Pakistan's people and government for Trump's personal role in brokering a ceasefire between Pakistan and India during the recent regional crisis. Trump, in return, praised Pakistan's regional peacekeeping and counterterrorism efforts.
IRS notes that the dialogue extended beyond security matters to encompass expansive discussions on trade, economic development, energy, cryptocurrency, artificial intelligence, and mineral exploration-an ambitious agenda suggesting long-term strategic alignment. President Trump voiced a strong interest in developing a mutually beneficial trade partnership with Pakistan rooted in shared goals and regional convergence.
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Both sides also discussed escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, agreeing on the urgency of diplomatic resolution. Trump was briefed on Pakistan's position as a responsible regional stakeholder advocating for de-escalation. The IRS views this engagement as emblematic of Pakistan's evolving global posture-from reactive crisis diplomacy to proactive strategic positioning. In its analysis, the think tank highlights how Pakistan is increasingly seen by Washington as a necessary stabilizing force amid a deteriorating Middle East environment. According to the think tank's analysis, Pakistan's shared borders with Iran and its strategic position in the Middle East have the potential to catapult Pakistan into the middle of a diplomatic solution.
As a symbol of warming ties, Field Marshal Munir formally invited President Trump to undertake an official visit to Pakistan. The invitation was well received, with both sides agreeing to maintain momentum on key collaborative tracks.
A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/33ef65bd-a6de-49db-b2ee-bd8bc97cc66f
CONTACT: Contact
Institute of Regional Studies (IRS), Islamabad
Phone: +92-51-9203974
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.irs.org.pk
