“We will not sacrifice one friend for another,” Field Marshal on US-China relations
Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, has firmly rejected speculation about any leadership change, describing such rumors as “baseless and malicious.” Speaking at an event in Brussels, he clarified that his only responsibility is to protect the country, adding, “God has made me the protector of this country. Beyond this responsibility, I have no desire for any other position.”
Addressing Pakistan’s foreign policy, Asim Munir highlighted Islamabad’s longstanding ability to balance relations with both China and the United States. Stressing neutrality and strategic balance, he declared, “We will not sacrifice one friend for another.” The statement comes at a time when global politics is increasingly polarized between Washington and Beijing, positioning Pakistan’s role as a careful mediator and trusted partner to both sides.
The Army Chief also commended US President Donald Trump’s push for peace, calling his efforts genuine and recalling that Pakistan was the first country to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize, a move later echoed by other nations.
On regional security, Field Marshal Munir warned India against using proxies to destabilize Pakistan, asserting that Islamabad will respond with full force. He also urged the Afghan government to stop sending Taliban fighters across the border, stressing, “It is our duty to avenge the blood of every Pakistani.”
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In Brussels, the Army Chief was welcomed warmly by overseas Pakistanis, many of whom hailed him as a “victor of war.” Defying protocol, he spent several hours personally greeting the crowd, shaking hands with attendees who had traveled from across Europe. “How can I break the hearts of those who came from afar?” he said, refusing to leave until he met everyone present.
Field Marshal Asim Munir also praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his cabinet for their tireless efforts during times of conflict, noting that they worked “18 hours a day” to keep the country stable. He lauded their resolve and described their leadership as “commendable.”
His remarks underline Pakistan’s delicate balancing act in international relations, reaffirming that Islamabad seeks friendship with all global partners without compromising on sovereignty or security.
