ISLAMABAD: In a major step for regional diplomacy and military cooperation, Pakistan hosted the Regional Defence Conference on Saturday. The event brought together defence chiefs from the United States, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
Held under the theme “Strengthening Bonds, Securing Peace,” the summit emphasized collaboration over conflict, highlighting Pakistan’s leadership in security diplomacy.
Key Objectives of the Conference:
- Strengthen joint security efforts
- Enhance military training cooperation
- Exchange counterterrorism strategies
- Discuss defence planning and regional crisis response
Organized by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the event sought to align regional security goals and combat shared threats.
COAS Asim Munir’s Strategic Message
Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, welcomed the delegations and reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to regional peace.
“In an era of transnational threats and hybrid warfare, military collaboration and trust-building are essential,” he stated.
“Pakistan is committed to working with its partners toward a peaceful and prosperous region.”
Key Topics Discussed by Defence Chiefs:
- Regional security dynamics in South and Central Asia
- Cooperation in counterterrorism intelligence and strategy
- Strategic defence trends and military innovation
- Disaster-response and humanitarian coordination frameworks
Shared Challenges Acknowledged:
- Cybersecurity and digital warfare vulnerabilities
- Rising terrorism and violent extremism
- Need to uphold international norms and national sovereignty
Delegates stressed the need for collaborative action and peaceful co-existence.
Praise for Pakistan’s Leadership and Diplomacy
International participants praised Pakistan’s hospitality and initiative. Many identified this summit as a milestone in fostering trust, stability, and multilateral defence cooperation.
Pakistan’s Global Engagement on Display
This conference follows key engagements by Pakistani leaders:
- COAS Asim Munir’s strategic visit to Beijing for military-to-military cooperation with China
- Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar’s diplomatic meetings with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington
Secretary Rubio praised Pakistan’s role in reducing US-Iran tensions and strengthening regional cooperation.
Building Bridges Between Superpowers
Speaking at the Atlantic Council, FM Ishaq Dar emphasized Pakistan’s unique diplomatic position:
“We have historically brought the United States and China closer. Pakistan is once again ready to serve peace and dialogue.”
His remarks reflect Pakistan’s foreign policy shift toward multi-directional diplomacy and regional integration.
Conclusion: Pakistan Rising as a Strategic Anchor
The Regional Defence Conference confirmed Pakistan’s evolving role as a regional connector. Bringing together diverse nations in the face of complex threats, Islamabad is highlighting its potential as a beacon of peace, strategic foresight, and regional unity.
With future-military coordination and defence pacts expected to follow, Pakistan sets a vital precedent for regional defence diplomacy and strategic engagement.
