In a moment of historic significance and national pride, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir was officially conferred the Baton of Field Marshal in a grand ceremony held at the Aiwan-e-Sadr (President House) on Thursday evening.
The distinguished event was graced by President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who jointly presented the ceremonial baton to the Army Chief in recognition of his exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and meritorious services to the nation and its armed forces.
A Ceremony of Unity and National Prestige
The ceremony brought together the country’s top civilian and military leadership under one roof. Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari were also in attendance, highlighting a rare moment of political unity around national defence and military achievements.
Also present were Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan, members of the federal cabinet, chief ministers of Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan, as well as the governors of Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The event was further dignified by the presence of services chiefs, foreign diplomats, and senior civil and military officials, underlining the international and institutional significance of the occasion.
Symbol of Military Excellence
The Baton of Field Marshal is one of the highest military honours and symbolises supreme command responsibility and distinguished service in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty. General Asim Munir’s elevation to the rank of Field Marshal comes at a time when Pakistan’s armed forces are lauded for their strategic resilience, operational excellence, and historic victories during recent escalations with India.
National Recognition for a National Leader
The ceremony underscored General Munir’s contributions not only as a military leader but also as a unifying figure committed to the integrity, security, and stability of Pakistan. His role in guiding the nation through Operation Bunyanum Marsoos and Marka-e-Haq earned him national and international acclaim.
With this honour, Field Marshal Asim Munir joins the rare and prestigious ranks in Pakistan’s military history, reaffirming the Armed Forces’ central role in defending the country’s frontiers and fostering national cohesion.
