Financial Times praises CDF Asim Munir’s multi-aligned foreign policy leadership

The newspaper highlighted Field Marshal Asim Munir’s ability to adapt to former US President Donald Trump’s unconventional and informal diplomatic style

23 December 2025
Financial Times praises CDF Asim Munir’s multi-aligned foreign policy leadership

Britain’s leading financial daily Financial Times has described Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, as one of the most effective strategic leaders to emerge in today’s rapidly shifting global order, highlighting his expertise in navigating a complex, multi-aligned foreign policy landscape.

According to the report, the changing dynamics of global politics have opened a new but challenging era for so-called “middle powers.” In this environment, Financial Times notes that Field Marshal Asim Munir stands out as one of the most successful “multi-aligners,” leaders who skillfully balance relationships with multiple global and regional powers at the same time. The paper specifically praised Pakistan multi-aligned foreign policy as a strong example of how middle powers can protect national interests without being locked into a single geopolitical camp.

The newspaper pointed out that Pakistan’s leadership has remained actively engaged with Washington, Beijing, Riyadh, and Tehran simultaneously—an approach that requires careful timing, diplomatic flexibility, and strategic clarity. Under Field Marshal Munir’s guidance, Pakistan has reportedly turned global uncertainty into opportunity, creating new diplomatic space despite rising international tensions.

Financial Times also highlighted Munir’s ability to adapt to former US President Donald Trump’s unconventional and informal diplomatic style. His timely engagement, polite rhetoric, and soft-toned diplomacy were described as particularly effective, helping Pakistan maintain relevance and leverage at a critical moment. The paper observed that these diplomatic gains left India visibly frustrated.

In contrast, the report noted that India’s attempt to play the middle-power game has proven more difficult than expected. New Delhi, according to the analysis, struggled to adjust to shifting global realities and Trump’s personalized approach to diplomacy. As a result, India has faced setbacks in executing its own middle-power strategy.

The article concluded by calling Field Marshal Asim Munir a clear and practical example of successful middle-power diplomacy in action. By steering Pakistan multi-aligned foreign policy with balance and confidence, he has positioned the country as a pragmatic player capable of engaging multiple power centers without overcommitting to any single bloc.