Diplomatic ties between Pakistan and the United States gained fresh momentum as President Donald Trump hosted Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, for a private lunch at the White House.
Field Marshal Munir was accompanied by the Director-General of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Asim Malik, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
The gathering, held in the White House Cabinet Room, marked a rare direct meeting between a top Pakistani military official and an American president, especially significant given the recent tensions between Pakistan and India.
Pakistan’s Army Chief Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, DG ISI Lt Gen Asim Malik and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi arrives at The White House for a lunch with US President Donald Trump. Big important meeting ahead. pic.twitter.com/Dt4TYug3BK
— Wajahat Kazmi (@KazmiWajahat) June 18, 2025
The meeting is being viewed as an important move to rebuild trust and strengthen strategic cooperation.
Officials have said President Trump played a major role in brokering a ceasefire between the two neighboring countries after a recent five-day flare-up.
The White House also indicated Trump is open to facilitating dialogue on deeper issues, including the long-standing Kashmir conflict.
During his U.S. visit, Field Marshal Munir is also scheduled to meet Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth for further talks.
Pakistani officials acknowledged President Trump’s role in helping reduce regional tensions, noting that Pakistan emerged diplomatically and militarily stronger from the conflict.
Earlier, Munir addressed members of the Pakistani community in Washington, where he commended their contribution to Pakistan’s economy and international standing.