Rawalpindi, May 29, 2025 – Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), met with participants of *Hilal Talks* at the Army Auditorium today. The event, featuring interactive sessions and group discussions on international, regional, and national affairs, aims to provide a platform for dialogue among Pakistan’s academic circles.
Recognizing the pivotal role of academia in national development, the forum brought together around 1,800 participants from educational institutions across the country, including vice-chancellors, department heads, senior faculty members, principals, and students. Most attendees joined virtually, with special representation from Balochistan’s southern districts, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.
In his address, the Army Chief emphasized the academic community’s responsibility in promoting national unity, stability, peace, and progress. He stressed the need for critical thinking and knowledge-based economies, stating, *“Our educational institutions must serve as hubs for critical analysis, reasoning, and innovative solutions for Pakistan’s development.”*
Acknowledging challenges in higher education, particularly in research, COAS reiterated the military’s full support for government initiatives aimed at improving the academic environment and fostering innovation.
Following an open Q&A session, participants praised *Hilal Talks* as a constructive initiative, expressing confidence that such forums would enhance intellectual exchange, research collaboration, and national cohesion.
The event concluded with a shared commitment to work collectively toward a secure and prosperous Pakistan.
