Asim Munir meets US Congress members over defence, trade ties
The meeting took place at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi and covered several areas of mutual interest. These included defence cooperation, economic relations, regional security and opportunities for greater prosperity.
The US delegation included House of Representatives members Ryan Keith Zinke from Montana and Michael James from Washington. Both sides discussed ways to further improve cooperation between Pakistan and the United States.
The American lawmakers praised Pakistan’s role in supporting regional stability. They also recognised Islamabad’s efforts to promote peace and strengthen economic resilience.
"Pakistan-US relations have never been better," says US Congressman Ryan Zinke while speaking to Pakistan TV. He says President Donald Trump, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif maintain strong communication, expressing confidence that bilateral ties… pic.twitter.com/pewMZhnjAQ
— Pakistan TV (@PakTVGlobal) July 25, 2026
Asim Munir highlights Pakistan’s economic potential
During the meeting, Field Marshal Asim Munir highlighted Pakistan’s economic potential and its importance for regional stability.
He said long-term peace in the region is closely linked with economic growth, increased trade and better regional connectivity.
The defence chief also highlighted Pakistan’s structural reforms aimed at creating a business-friendly environment. He said such efforts could help attract more foreign investment and support economic growth.
The two sides also explored ways to increase trade and expand economic cooperation between Pakistan and the United States.
They discussed stronger private-sector partnerships and greater opportunities for businesses in both countries. The talks therefore went beyond defence matters and included wider economic and institutional cooperation.
US lawmakers signal stronger relations
The US representatives thanked Pakistan’s military leadership for its hospitality. They also expressed a desire to strengthen economic, trade and institutional ties between the two countries.
The lawmakers arrived in Pakistan last week and expressed optimism about the future of bilateral relations.
Michael James said in an interview with state-owned Pakistan TV that relations between Pakistan and the US were “going to be stronger”. Zinke also described the relationship as one that “has never been better”.
The comments suggest that both sides see room for closer engagement. Defence cooperation remains important, but trade, investment and economic links are also becoming key parts of the relationship.
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The American representatives also visited important historical sites in Lahore during their trip.
They paid tribute at Allama Iqbal’s Mausoleum before visiting the Badshahi Mosque and Lahore Fort. During the visit, they received briefings about Pakistan’s history, architecture and cultural heritage.
The delegation also praised Lahore’s security arrangements and expressed interest in cooperation involving education, tourism, transportation and cultural exchanges.
Baumgartner praised the city, saying, “Lahore has been truly impressive. I think every American should come and visit.”
"Lahore has been truly impressive. I think every American should come and visit," says US Congressman Michael Baumgartner, praising the city's history, architecture and development. Speaking to Pakistan TV, Congressman Baumgartner says the US delegation was impressed by Lahore's… pic.twitter.com/26ve8lsWzo
— Pakistan TV (@PakTVGlobal) July 26, 2026
