Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir was formally bestowed with the prestigious ‘Baton of Field Marshal’ in a special ceremony held at the Aiwan-e-Sadr on Thursday.
The honour was conferred jointly by President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in recognition of General Munir’s strategic leadership and his outstanding contributions to Pakistan’s national defence.
The event was attended by a host of dignitaries, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, members of the federal cabinet, former premier Nawaz Sharif, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, provincial governors and chief ministers, as well as foreign diplomats.
Speaking at the ceremony, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the occasion as a “historic and proud day” for the nation. “We honour the services of our national heroes, and today is a continuation of that tradition,” he said.
He commended General Munir’s leadership, particularly highlighting the military’s recent achievements. “The armed forces, under the command of the Field Marshal, have delivered a significant victory against the enemy,” the premier noted.
He pointed to the successful execution of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos as a key milestone under General Munir’s leadership, praising his pivotal role in fostering synergy between the military and political leadership of the country.
The federal cabinet had earlier approved General Munir’s elevation to the rank of Field Marshal during a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Sharif. The ministers unanimously praised the success of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, calling it a decisive action that thwarted Indian aggression and preserved Pakistan’s sovereignty.
The prime minister also acknowledged General Munir’s “exceptional military leadership, courage, and strategic vision,” noting that his promotion to Field Marshal status was a tribute to his role in defending the homeland and safeguarding national interests.
