Written by/Syed Munawar Hussain Shah
In a robust demonstration of military diplomacy and strategic interaction, Pakistan hosted a three-day Pakistan Army Foreign Convention, chaired by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir. The convention hosted Pakistan Army officers serving on diplomatic and defense postings around the globe. Held under the theme of unity, security, and progressive partnerships, the convention is a significant leap toward the redefinition of Pakistan’s international military posture in a rapidly evolving world order.
The convention is opportune—a time when Pakistan is also grappling with complex geopolitical rivalries, a shifting regional security paradigm, and existential economic challenges at home. More than a ceremonial gathering, the foreign convention was a strategic forum to align Pakistan’s military diplomacy with its broader foreign policy goals.
Day 1: Strategic Vision and National Security Outlook
The first day was begun by COAS General Asim Munir’s speech, who presented a visionary defense diplomacy agenda for Pakistan. Sincerely and with resolve, General Munir reaffirmed the imperatives of maintaining national sovereignty, internal stability, and equilibrium in foreign policy.
He underscored that Pakistan’s reputation abroad must exude strength, resilience, and strategic direction. In his own words, “Pakistan is not a weak state. We are a resilient nation with a proud military tradition—and we must never allow hostile narratives to define our international reputation.”
COAS also discussed the challenge of disinformation campaigns to malign Pakistan’s institutions and highlighted the role defense attachés could play in mitigating such negative narratives abroad based on facts and professionalism.
Day 2: Diplomacy in Uniform – The Defense Attachés’ Role
Day 2 of the convention was reserved for the functional and diplomatic role of Pakistan’s defense attachés posted anywhere in the world. They serve as representatives of Pakistan’s defense interests at missions and foreign embassies.
There were in-camera meetings and working groups to exchange perceptions regarding dominating trends in regional security, such as India’s activist role, the Afghan issue, Iranian-Pak border sensitivities, and strategic un-folding in Indo-Pacific theater. There was exchange of intelligence inputs and policy briefs for the officers in order to harmonize Pakistan’s security messaging overseas.
The day’s highlight was a panel discussion entitled “Defense Diplomacy in a Multipolar World.” Speakers debated whether and how Pakistan could set about sustaining strategic neutrality and diversifying friendships with decisive partners like China, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the Gulf states without irritating the West.
General Munir urged officers to build closer military-to-military relations with host countries, mutual training exchanges, and project Pakistan as a responsible nuclear power that advocates for peace in the region.
Day 3: Overseas Pakistanis, Image Building, and Global Outreach
On the third day, the focus was on public diplomacy, soft power, and engaging with the Pakistani community living abroad. The Army Chief emphasized that overseas Pakistanis are valuable assets and are unofficial ambassadors. He stressed the importance of strengthening the connection between the homeland and these communities.
We must protect our diaspora abroad from disinformation. We must connect them to the reality of Pakistan’s resilience, people, and future,” General Munir stated.
Sessions were held on strategic communication, digital diplomacy, and the role of media in international opinion making. Officers were tasked with enhancing interactions with think tanks, defense institutes, and media houses in their respective countries of posting.
Besides, the conference featured presentations on Pakistan’s internal development narrative, including military-led contributions to health, education, and infrastructure in remote areas. These stories, normally underreported, were presented as part of a broader effort to reshape the global image of Pakistan from that of a security-obsessed state to a development-oriented society.
Conclusion: A New Era of Military Diplomacy
The three-day Pakistan Army Foreign Convention was not merely an in-house military exercise—it was a declaration of intent. It underscored the recognition that military diplomacy is as relevant today as conventional warfare in the modern age.
By giving its globally deployed officers one story, consistent policy direction, and strategic intent, the Pakistan Army has moved ahead by integrating its worldwide presence into national interests. As eloquently put by General Munir, “We are the custodians of Pakistan’s defense, its dignity, and its diplomatic image.”
The convention concluded with rededication, a strategy roadmap, and a message to the world: Pakistan stands ready to engage, not just on the battlefield—but on the world stage.
