ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday took President Asif Ali Zardari into confidence during a high-level meeting held at the President House regarding the decision to elevate Chief of Army Staff Gen Syed Asim Munir to the rank of the field marshal.

A statement issued after the meeting quoted the president saying that under the leadership of Gen Munir, the armed forces successfully defended the country during the recent conflict with India.

The president said Gen Munir deserved the promotion for giving a strong response to the Indian aggression, successfully defending the country, and demonstrating excellent military strategy.

During the meeting, the armed forces were lauded for their effective response to Indian attacks.

President Zardari and PM Shehbaz also congratulated Gen Munir on his promotion.

“The rank of field marshal is a recognition of your services in defence of the homeland,” the president said, while referring to Field Marshal Munir.

He said the general and the armed forces deserved appreciation for their effective response to Indian aggression.

In his message, PM Shehbaz said Gen Munir has been promoted in recognition of his “invaluable services for the defence of the homeland” and for taking decisive steps to restore the balance of power in the region.

Published in Dawn, May 21st, 2025