India, Afghanistan, Trump And More: All That Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir Said In His Recent Interview

Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir has dismissed rumours about a change in the country’s presidency or premiership, calling them the work of elements trying to create political anarchy.

Speaking to Pakistani newspaper Daily Jang's editor Suhail Warraich during a meeting in Brussels, Munir described reports suggesting a leadership change in the country as “completely false” and emphasised that he has no ambition for any position beyond his current role, calling himself “protector of the country.”

Munir praised Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his government, highlighting the “determination and courage” shown by it during the May conflict with India.

On domestic politics, the army chief stated that political reconciliation requires a “sincere apology,” an apparent reference to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and its incarcerated leader Imran Khan. The military has long blamed PTI for orchestrating the 9 May riots, and several party leaders have recently faced convictions in connection with the unrest.

Khan had earlier demanded proof of PTI supporters’ involvement before offering an apology.

On foreign policy, Munir stressed that Pakistan intends to maintain balance between the United States and China, saying the country “will not sacrifice one friend for the other.”

He described former US President Donald Trump’s peace efforts as “genuine” and noted that Pakistan had taken the lead in nominating him for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Addressing regional security, Munir warned India against destabilising Pakistan through proxies and cautioned Afghanistan against “pushing the Taliban into Pakistan,” suggesting such moves would be met with a response.

He said Pakistan has provided assistance and favours to Afghanistan for years, but these efforts are being undermined in coordination with India.