Rawalpindi, November 26,2025: Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, who retires on November 27, said on Wednesday that a strong national defence remains a critical pillar of Pakistan’s national security in the current geo-strategic environment.
He made the remarks at a farewell ceremony held at the Joint Staff Headquarters, marking the completion of his 40 years of “distinguished military service,” according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). The event was attended by former CJCSCs as well as senior officers from all three services.
In his address, the outgoing CJCSC expressed gratitude to Allah Almighty for enabling him to perform his duties “with dedication, professionalism, and selfless devotion.” He paid tribute to the armed forces for their sacrifices and honoured the martyrs and their families.
Gen Mirza said Pakistan’s defence remains “impregnable,” adding that the country’s officers and soldiers stand ready to further strengthen its security.
Upon his arrival at the headquarters, a smartly turned-out tri-services contingent presented a guard of honour to the outgoing chairman.
A day earlier, Gen Mirza paid a farewell visit to Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir at the General Headquarters. According to the ISPR, the army chief praised Gen Mirza’s “exemplary leadership, strategic foresight and dedicated service” to the Pakistan Armed Forces.
Gen Mirza will be the last officer to hold the office of CJCSC, as the position will cease to exist following his retirement under changes introduced through the 27th Constitutional Amendment. Field Marshal Munir will subsequently take over as the country’s first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF).
