Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, who is on his maiden visit to the US, has dispelled rumours about special screening, denial of visas and detentions.

“Pakistani diaspora anywhere around the world is held in high regard as they are ambassadors of Pakistan and contribute significantly to Pakistan in varying domains,” he was quoted as saying in a press release issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations on Friday.

He said this while interacting with the Pakistani overseas community at a reception hosted by the Embassy of Pakistan. He met with members of the Pakistani community.

COAS Munir called on key US government and military officials during his ongoing visit to the US including, Antony Blinken, the secretary of state, General Llyod J Austin (retd), the secretary of defence, Victoria Nuland, the deputy secretary of state, Jonathan Finer, the deputy national security adviser and General Charles Q Brown, the chairman of joint chiefs of staff.

Matters of bilateral interests, global and regional security issues, and ongoing conflicts were discussed during the meetings. Both sides agreed to continue engagement for exploring potential avenues of bilateral collaboration in pursuit of shared interests, said the military’s media wing.

Counter terrorism cooperation and defence collaboration were identified as core areas of cooperation during the meetings with defence officials. Both sides reiterated the intent to increase interaction and explore ways to expand the scope of mutually beneficial engagements.

“The COAS underscored the importance of understanding each other’s perspectives on regional security issues and developments affecting strategic stability in South Asia,” it said. In this context, the army chief highlighted the importance of resolving the Kashmir issue in accordance with international law and relevant UNSC resolutions.

Interaction with Pakistani overseas community

The COAS appreciated the role being played by Pakistani overseas community towards the country’s progress and development.

Topics of varying dimensions were discussed during the interaction. COAS Munir appreciated efforts of the Pakistani diaspora. He also welcomed and encouraged the diaspora to invest through the Special Investment Facilitation Council, which is “already yielding success in various dimensions.”

“The COAS also highlighted that US is the largest export market for Pakistan constituting 21.5 % of our total exports and dispelled rumours about special screening, denial of visas and detentions,” said the statement.

Members of the Pakistani community expressed their pride in role and contributions of Pakistan army towards well being of Pakistan.

COAS Munir extended good wishes to the Pakistani community. He also met with Tanweer Ahmed who had donated $9 million for the National University of Sciences & Technology in the field of IT development in Pakistan. The army chief appreciated him and said: “Pakistan is proud of heroes like him.”