Historic Transition as CJCSC Position Abolished
In a significant military administrative change, outgoing Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) General Sahir Shamshad Mirza officially concluded his tenure on Monday through a series of high-level farewell meetings. The transition marks a historic moment as the position itself has been abolished following the 27th Constitutional Amendment, ending what had been largely a ceremonial role in Pakistan's military structure.
Farewell Calls on President and Prime Minister
General Mirza began his final day in office by paying farewell calls on both President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. During these meetings, both national leaders expressed their appreciation for General Mirza's distinguished service to the nation.
President Zardari specifically commended the officer's professional abilities and recognized his valuable contributions to national defence. The president extended his best wishes to the departing military leader for his future endeavors.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif similarly praised General Mirza's professional capabilities and his dedicated services to Pakistan. A brief official statement accompanied by photographs documented these significant meetings, capturing the conclusion of General Mirza's military career.
Strengthening Pakistan-Saudi Defense Relations
In another important development, Saudi Chief of General Staff General Fayyadh Bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili visited General Sahir Shamshad Mirza at the Joint Staff Headquarters. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the two military leaders engaged in substantive discussions about the evolving global and regional security environment.
Their conversation focused on identifying concrete measures to enhance cooperation between the armed forces of both nations. Both officials reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the longstanding defence and security ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
The outgoing CJCSC reiterated Pakistan's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and ensuring the protection of Haramain al-Sharifain, the two holy mosques in Mecca and Medina.
General Al-Ruwaili acknowledged the professionalism of the Pakistan Armed Forces and recognized the significant sacrifices they have made in the ongoing fight against terrorism. This meeting underscored the deep military cooperation between the two allied nations.
Constitutional Changes Reshape Military Leadership
The abolition of the CJCSC position represents one of the most significant structural changes to Pakistan's military leadership in recent history. The 27th Constitutional Amendment has effectively reshaped the country's highest military advisory body, with General Sahir Shamshad Mirza being the last officer to hold this historic position.
This transition period highlights both the changing nature of military leadership in Pakistan and the continued importance of strong international defense partnerships, particularly with key allies like Saudi Arabia.
