Asim Munir, Lebanese Army Chief discuss expanding defence cooperation at GHQ

RAWALPINDI: In a significant high-level military engagement, Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and Commander-in-Chief of the Lebanese Armed Forces, General Rodolphe Haykal, held detailed discussions at General Headquarters (GHQ) on Tuesday, focusing on the evolving regional security environment and expanding defence cooperation.

Upon arrival at GHQ in Rawalpindi, General Haykal was warmly received and presented with a smartly turned-out guard of honour by a tri-services contingent of the Pakistan Armed Forces, reflecting the longstanding cordial ties between the two militaries.

During the meeting, both military leaders exchanged views on a wide range of matters of mutual interest, including regional security challenges, counter-terrorism cooperation, and the growing need for enhanced military-to-military engagement in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the discussions placed strong emphasis on strengthening institutional linkages, expanding joint training programs, and improving professional exchanges between the armed forces of Pakistan and Lebanon.

Field Marshal Asim Munir reaffirmed that Pakistan deeply values its longstanding and friendly relations with Lebanon. He underscored that the Pakistan Army remains committed to broadening defence collaboration, particularly in areas of training, capacity building, and operational expertise sharing.

On the other side, General Rodolphe Haykal expressed appreciation for the professionalism, discipline, and operational excellence of the Pakistan Armed Forces. He acknowledged Pakistan’s contributions to regional peace, stability, and global peacekeeping missions under the United Nations framework.

Both sides also reviewed evolving regional dynamics, noting that shifting security challenges demand closer coordination and stronger institutional partnerships among friendly nations.

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to further deepen defence ties and explore new avenues of cooperation that could benefit both armed forces in training, strategic dialogue, and joint initiatives.

The ISPR described the visit as a reflection of the shared resolve of Pakistan and Lebanon to strengthen military relations and promote peace and stability in their respective regions.

As regional uncertainties continue to reshape defence priorities, the engagement at GHQ signals a growing intent by both countries to transform traditional goodwill into structured and future-oriented military cooperation.