ISLAMABAD, Pakistan – In a landmark event reflecting both national pride and military prestige, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir was officially conferred the Baton of Field Marshal during a solemn and high-profile ceremony at the President House in Islamabad on Thursday.
The ceremony was jointly presided over by President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, underscoring the state’s recognition of General Munir’s exceptional military leadership, strategic acumen, and unwavering dedication to national defense.
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National Unity on Display
The event drew an impressive assembly of political, civil, military, and diplomatic dignitaries. Among the key attendees were:
- Members of Parliament
- Governors of Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
- Chief Ministers of Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan
- Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar
- Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb
- Defense Minister Khawaja Asif
- Federal Ministers including Hanif Abbasi, Musaddiq Malik, Abdul Aleem Khan, and Jam Kamal
- Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Former Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari
- Senior military officials, foreign diplomats, and key figures from Pakistan’s strategic community
Significance of the Baton of Field Marshal
The Baton of Field Marshal represents the pinnacle of military honor and command authority in Pakistan. General Asim Munir’s elevation to this rank marks a historic milestone, celebrating his role in strengthening national security, guiding military strategy during critical phases, and ensuring Pakistan’s sovereignty amid regional and global challenges.
A Moment of National Confidence
In his concluding remarks, President Zardari praised Field Marshal Munir’s visionary leadership, reaffirming the nation’s full trust in the Pakistan Army under his command. The President also highlighted the symbolic power of the Field Marshal rank, stating that it reflects the deep-rooted respect for the armed forces across all levels of society.
This rare conferment not only elevates General Munir to an elite status in Pakistan’s military history but also serves as a message of unity and strength in the face of growing geopolitical uncertainties.