Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Field Marshal Asim Munir, is visiting Washington DC to attend the 250th anniversary celebrations of the US Army on 14 June 2025. This is more than a ceremonial visit. Pakistan’s military has long been the centre of power in the country. It dominates not only domestic politics but also shapes foreign policy and regional security. This visit represents a critical point in US–Pakistan relations, escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, and shifting geopolitical alignments in post-Afghanistan South Asia. This article explores what is truly being negotiated behind closed doors, the influence of the military, the civilian government’s resilience, and the effects on regional stability.
Ever since the military has taken over politics through coups and by dominating policymaking, the establishment pushes the civilian government aside by controlling foreign policy, internal security, and economic decisions. The promotion of COAS Asim Munir to the rank of Field Marshal—which has occurred only once before in Pakistan—reflects the military’s growing power. Its influence extends beyond defence.
Pakistan’s civilian government is often seen as backed by the establishment. The current government depends on military support to survive, especially in times of political and economic hardship. This weakens the civilian government, as decisions align more with military interests than with democratic principles. The military’s dominance over security and foreign policy perpetuates a cycle of authoritarianism disguised as civilian rule.
The Washington visit follows rising tensions between India and Pakistan. After the Pahalgam incident, India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting Pakistan-administered Kashmir. Pakistan’s military adopted a hardline approach under Munir’s leadership and retaliated with full force. These events have complicated regional stability, given that both countries are nuclear powers. The US aims to open the door for communication with Pakistan while maintaining relations with India. This is evident in the invitation extended to Munir and the commendations from US Central Command Chief Gen. Michael Kurilla.
The 2025–26 fiscal year has reached a record in terms of defence spending. The government has prioritised military resources over the economic challenges faced by the population, highlighting military influence on national decisions. This continues to fuel public frustration.
Following the US military withdrawal from Afghanistan, Pakistan’s strategic importance has evolved. The US views Pakistan as a key player in counterterrorism, particularly against ISIS-Khorasan. Pakistan is also considered a counterbalance to China’s growing regional power. The invitation to Munir and his expected meetings at the Pentagon and US Central Command Headquarters reveal US intentions to reset military-to-military ties. The US seeks to maintain leverage over Pakistan to uphold regional stability and prevent the country from drifting fully into China’s orbit.
While the visit is framed as a diplomatic arrangement, the reality is that the US is attempting to dominate Pakistan through military-to-military interactions, as foreign policy is fully militarised. The civilian government plays second fiddle in terms of international posture. This results in military-orientated interests rather than national interests, further complicating democratic governance.
So, what can be expected from the visit? The visit likely involves negotiations on security matters, intelligence sharing, and military aid. It also signals Washington’s willingness to engage directly with Pakistan’s military despite domestic political challenges. However, it raises questions about Pakistan’s sovereignty.
Pakistan’s Strategic Dilemma amid US–China Rivalry
Historically, the US and Pakistan have experienced both cooperation and alienation in terms of security. The US has provided aid and support to Pakistan when convenient. However, as Pakistan’s relationship with China has strengthened, the US has distanced itself. While the US commends Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts, the relationship remains unstable.
China is Pakistan’s strongest ally. Pakistan has many joint projects with China, chief among them the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). The military relationship is also robust, involving arms deals. Due to this alliance, the US sees the need to engage with Pakistan to counterbalance China’s influence. Pakistan serves as a balancing point between its all-weather ally, China, and its seasonal ally, the US.
Amidst all this, the risk of conflict with India persists. As both are nuclear powers, maintaining military and diplomatic relations becomes crucial for the US.
Munir’s visit is portrayed as a diplomatic success, highlighting cooperation. However, the reality differs: the military holds control over policymaking and the public narrative. The COAS’s visit is a microcosm of the larger geopolitical landscape. In this visit, military power, diplomacy, and strategic interests converge—shaping the prospects for regional peace and determining Pakistan’s future.