Today – November 29 – marks the one year of General Syed Asim Munir as the army chief. One year of his service has culminated at a record breaking stock exchange mark.
Last year, when the introvert general earned nomination for the highest post in the Pakistan army, he was not widely known among the masses. His new professional journey began at a time when there was political turmoil in the country; when the country was suffering from inflation, and there were diplomatic challenges which the coalition government of that time was facing with.
By all means, his tenure did not look like a bed of roses.
Assuming command during a political face-off between the coalition government and former prime minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf, and against the backdrop of an economic crisis, Gen Munir stepped into a challenging role. Outgoing General Qamar Javed Bajwa had expressed hope that Gen Munir’s appointment as his successor would prove beneficial for both the army and the nation.
Despite not being in the spotlight throughout his one-year tenure, Gen Munir’s behind-the-scenes efforts have significantly contributed to the overall stability of the country. His robust support for the government and the active role of the army played a pivotal role in steering Pakistan away from financial and economic default.
Under his leadership, foreign relations have seen a positive transformation, with strengthened ties with the United States, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), and China. Gen Munir’s adept backdoor diplomacy has played a crucial role in fostering these relationships.
The establishment and activation of the Special Investment Facilitation Council under Gen Munir’s direct intervention have streamlined the implementation of investor plans in Pakistan. This has resulted in the government collecting record tax amounts and an increase in the number of registered tax filers.
Taking a tough stance against smugglers, hoarders, and speculators, government agencies and law enforcement have cracked down on illegal activities. The controlled rise of the dollar and the strengthening of the national currency are evident outcomes of these efforts.
However, perhaps Gen Munir’s most crucial achievement has been the restoration of respect and love between the nation and military leadership. Faced with a resurgence of militant activity due to the soft terms of previous governments with terrorist factions, Gen Munir, along with law enforcement personnel, successfully neutralized threats, particularly the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan’s open attacks.
Beyond security concerns, Gen Munir has played a pivotal role in promoting economic development in Pakistan. His efforts have been focused on creating a conducive environment for investment, facilitating trade, and ensuring economic stability.
Actively engaging with the business community, Gen Munir has recognized their pivotal role in economic growth. Regular meetings with prominent businessmen, addressing their concerns, and seeking their input on improving the investment climate have been hallmarks of his approach.
In the span of just one year, Gen Asim Munir has left an indelible mark on Pakistan’s economic, and diplomatic landscapes. His tenure has been characterized by resilience, strategic vision, and a commitment to the nation’s progress. As Pakistan looks to the future, Gen Munir’s contributions are poised to set a challenging target and leave a lasting legacy.
