Islamabad / 26 July 2025 — In a formal ceremony at Aiwan‑e‑Sadr today, President Asif Ali Zardari conferred the prestigious Nishan‑e‑Imtiaz (Military) medal on General Michael E. Kurilla, Commander of United States Central Command (CENTCOM). The honour was bestowed in recognition of his exemplary military service and exceptional efforts in strengthening defence cooperation between Pakistan and the U.S.
The award acknowledged General Kurilla’s pivotal contributions in enhancing mutual understanding, deepening counterterrorism collaboration, and reinforcing regional stability initiatives. A statement from the Inter‑Services Public Relations (ISPR) emphasized his leadership role in fostering robust defence ties.
A ceremonial tri-services Guard of Honour was accorded to General Kurilla upon arrival, underlining the high esteem in which Pakistan’s military establishment holds him.
During his visit, General Kurilla met with President Zardari and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), engaging in discussions on:
Regional security dynamics
Emerging transnational threats
Military-to-military cooperation
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Joint counterterrorism initiatives
The award ceremony coincided with the Regional Chiefs of Defence Staff Conference hosted in Islamabad, which included military delegations from the U.S., Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Held under the theme “Strengthening Bonds, Securing Peace,” the dialogue enhanced multilateral defence diplomacy across Central and South Asia.
Nishan‑e‑Imtiaz (Military) is one of Pakistan’s highest civilian‑military honours, occasionally awarded to foreign military officers who have rendered exceptional service to Pakistan’s defence interests.
Past recipients include foreign military leaders whose roles significantly strengthened bilateral strategic relationships.