Pakistani Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir has reiterated the stance that Kashmir is the "jugular vein" of Pakistan, in a recent address to the Pakistani community in Tampa, Florida.
During his ongoing visit to the United States, Munir emphasized Pakistan's unwavering focus on the issue of Kashmir, stating, "It is our jugular vein."
India dismissed these remarks, with the Ministry of External Affairs stating, "How can anything foreign be in a jugular vein? This is a union territory of India. Its only relationship with Pakistan is the vacation of illegally occupied territories by that country."
Munir highlighted Pakistan’s response to recent conflicts with India, declaring that Islamabad had made it clear that any Indian aggression would meet a "befitting reply." His visit includes high-level meetings with U.S. political and military leaders and Pakistani diaspora members.
He asserted that Kashmir remains "not an internal matter of India but an incomplete international agenda," quoting Pakistan's founder Quaid-e-Azam in describing Kashmir as Pakistan’s "jugular vein." This marks Munir's second visit to the U.S. within a span of one and a half months, aimed at enhancing Pakistan-U.S. relations towards a constructive, sustainable future.
Munir acknowledged the influence of former President Donald Trump, crediting his strategic leadership with preventing a war between India and Pakistan as well as averting other global conflicts. The narrative from New Delhi, however, is that India and Pakistan ceased their military actions after direct negotiations between their respective militaries, without U.S. mediation.
Munir also spoke about a prospective trade agreement with the U.S., anticipated to attract significant investments, and Pakistan’s achievements in international relations.
Earlier, in June, Munir made a rare visit to the U.S. where he attended a private luncheon with President Trump, leading to the announcement of enhanced cooperation between the two nations in various sectors, including a new oil deal.
During his stop in Tampa, Munir participated in the Retirement Ceremony of outgoing CENTCOM Commander General Michael E. Kurilla and witnessed Admiral Brad Cooper assuming command. He also met with Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine, where discussions on professional interests took place and an invitation was extended to Caine to visit Pakistan.
Addressing the Pakistani diaspora, Munir urged confidence in Pakistan’s future and encouraged active contributions to attract investments. The diaspora expressed their dedication to supporting Pakistan's development and progress.
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