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Federal cabinet approves promotion of COAS Asim Munir to field marshal rank

Federal cabinet approves promotion of COAS Asim Munir to field marshal rank

In a landmark decision, federal cabinet has promoted Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir (NI, M) to the rank of Field Marshal – the highest military honor – in recognition of his 'exceptional leadership' during Operation Bunyan Marsoos, which repelled India's 'unprovoked aggression'.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a federal cabinet meeting today, announcing pivotal decisions to honor Pakistan's armed forces following the recent military crisis with India.
Operation 'Bunyan ul Marsoos': Pakistan destroys Udhampur airbase, Pathankot airfield in India, state media reports
The cabinet unanimously endorsed the Prime minister's proposal to recognize General Munir's strategic brilliance and valiant defense of Pakistan's sovereignty,' stated the Prime Minister's Office.
Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu's service term has been extended unanimously for his contributions during the conflict.
Soldiers, martyrs, and civilians who served during the operation will be honored with state awards.
The statement added that PM Shehbaz briefed President Asif Ali Zardari on the decisions, signaling cross-party unity.
In his first statement after the promotion, the newly appointed Field Marshal Gen Asim Munir dedicated the honor to Pakistan's armed forces and martyrs.
'I dedicate this honor to the entire nation, the Armed Forces of Pakistan, and especially to our martyrs and wounded heroes—both civilian and military,' he said.
He also thanked the country's leadership while emphasizing the collective nature of the achievement.
'This is not an individual achievement, but an honor for the entire Pakistan Armed Forces and the nation.'
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Marka-e-Haq 14th August Youm-e-Azaadi: Message from Field Marshal Asim Munir Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military) Chief of Army Staff
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Marka-e-Haq 14th August Youm-e-Azaadi: Message from Field Marshal Asim Munir Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military) Chief of Army Staff

On the auspicious occasion of Pakistan's 78th Independence Day, I extend my heartiest felicitations to the entire nation. This day is a solemn reminder of the long struggle carried out by our ancestors who secured our freedom under the visionary leadership of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. As we pay homage to our great leaders and forefathers, we also salute our martyrs and veterans whose supreme sacrifices have been instrumental in securing our freedom. It is incumbent upon all of us to value the blessing of freedom. It is also necessary to realize that the struggle for Pakistan was not earned out only by the Muslims of the Subcontinent but the religious minorities also took an active part in Pakistan Movement, and are playing their role in national progress. Today, Pakistan is not only an impregnable citadel of Islam but is also an embodiment of interfaith harmony and religious freedom. 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