Update on The Performance of Democratic Institutions | May 2026

This update is meant to identify key developments during the month on Performance of Democratic Institutions in Pakistan with selected high-profile international developments included occasionally.

  1. 275th Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC)
  2. PM Shahbaz Sharif says Pakistan has demolished India’s delusion of dominance
  3. Field Marshal warns India of painful, far-reaching and dangerous consequences of any future misadventure
  4. PM, Field Marshal addresses Command and Staff College; joins Provincial Apex Committee on the National Action Plan
  5. DG ISPR says May 2025 conflict exposed India’s practice of externalising internal problems and internalising external disputes
  6. Iran and US peace deal continues to see saw
  7. Prime Minister’s Interactions with Field Marshal, COAS & CDF
  8. Interactions of Field Marshal, COAS & CDF with Foreign Dignitaries

275th Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC)

On May 05, Field Marshal, Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) & Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) NI (M), HJ presided over the 275th Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC) at General Headquarters (GHQ), Rawalpindi. The Forum reviewed the prevailing internal and external security environment and resolved to maintain current operational tempo to dismantle terrorist networks, disrupt their support infrastructure, and deny them any operational space in Pakistan. The Forum acknowledged continued degradation of terrorist’s networks and support infrastructure through Operation Ghazb-ul-Haq. It noted that the Afghan Taliban regime’s support for terrorist groups remains a key security concern. The Forum further noted what it described as a disinformation campaign. The Forum noted that recent geopolitical developments could affect regional stability and reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for efforts promoting peace and stability. The Forum congratulated the nation and Armed Forces on the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq, recognizing it as a defining moment reflecting national unity and commitment to safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty. It emphasized that the commemoration reflects national unity in addressing internal and external challenges. The Forum also strongly condemned human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and reaffirmed Pakistan’s diplomatic, political, and moral support for the Kashmiri people.[1]

PM Shahbaz Sharif says Pakistan has demolished India’s delusion of dominance

/var/folders/24/x_dgx6g555q0n29wjdc1qgfc0000gp/T/com.microsoft.Word/Content.MSO/DF85E66A.tmp On May 10, Prime Minister, Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif, in a message marking the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq (May 9-10, 2025), described it as historic victory that demonstrated Pakistan’s ability to respond effectively to aggression and safeguard its sovereignty. Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, launched on May 10, 2025, was Pakistan’s military response during the India-Pakistan conflict of May 2025. The operation followed escalation in tensions after April 2025 Pahalgam attack and subsequent Indian strikes inside Pakistan on May 6-7, 2025. Pakistan stated the operation was conducted in response to Indian Military actions.   The Prime Minister said that the coordinated response of Pakistan’s forces across land, sea, air and cyber domains demonstrated the country’s defence capabilities. He described Marka-e-Haq anniversary as a day of gratitude and national pride. The Prime Minister also paid tribute to the Field Marshal, Syed Asim Munir and Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber and Admiral Naveed Ashraf for their leadership. He noted that Pakistan had demonstrated its commitment to peace while safeguarding its security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. He also said Pakistan continues to play a responsible role in promoting regional and global peace and stability. He also highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to support peace and de-escalation in regional conflicts. The Prime Minster reiterated that lasting peace and strategic stability in South Asia require the resolution of Kashmir dispute in accordance with United Nations resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.[2]

Field Marshal warns India of painful, far-reaching and dangerous consequences of any future misadventure

COAS Asim Munir Warns India Against War - The Daily CPEC On May 10, Field Marshal, Syed Asim Munir, addressing a ceremony at the General Headquarters (GHQ) marking the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq, warned against any future military aggression, stating that it would have serious consequences.” The event was attended by senior military leadership including Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu. The Field Marshal described Marka-e-Haq as a significant military and ideological victory for Pakistan and stated that the conflict demonstrated the country’s defence capabilities and national resolve. He praised the leadership of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and Admiral Naveed Ashraf, commending the performance of Pakistan Air Force and Pakistan Navy during the conflict. He stated that Pakistan’s military preparedness and coordination across services played a key role in the conflict. He also said that Pakistan’s defence capabilities and national unity contributed to the ceasefire and reiterated the country’s commitment to maintain credible deterrence and strategic stability in South Asia. He accused India of pursuing hostile polices toward Pakistan and referred to several past incidents as events used to increase tensions between the two countries. The Field Marshal paid tribute to civilians and members of the armed forces who lost their lives during the conflict and thanked Pakistan’s political and military leadership for their unity and support during the crisis. Emphasizing national unity, he said that people from all segments of society came together in support of Pakistan’s sovereignty and security. He stated that the conflict demonstrated the importance of patriotism, shared purpose, and collective resolve. The Field Marshal observed that future conflicts would increasingly involve cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, electronic warfare, space capabilities and multidimensional operations, highlighting the need for Pakistan to adapt to evolving security challenges. He also highlighted Pakistan’s defence cooperation with Saudi Arabia and the country’s diplomatic efforts to support regional peace and stability. He further expressed concern over cross-border militancy and praised the people of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as well as security forces and law enforcement agencies, for their sacrifices in combating terrorism. Concluding his address, he stressed that Pakistan must strengthen both its defence and economy with the same unity demonstrated during Marka-e-Haq, urging all segments of society to contribute to national development.[3]

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PM, Field Marshal address Command and Staff College Quetta; join Provincial Apex Committee on the National Action Plan

On May 19, Prime Mini­ster, Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) & Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), addressed student officers and faculty at the Command and Staff College, Quetta, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to defending its sovereignty, combating terrorism and promoting long-term stability. The Field Marshal stated Pakistan would continue to overcome security challenges through national resilience and unity. He emphasized the hostile forces seeking to destabilize the country would not succeed. During his interaction with officers and troops, the Field Marshal reaffirmed the armed forces’ commitment to eliminating terrorism in all its forms. He stressed that sustainable progress requires a people-centric approach, inclusive development, improved governance, and effective security measures. He also acknowledged ongoing efforts aimed at public welfare, socio-economic development, and strengthening state-society relations in Balochistan. Later, the Prime Minister and the Field Marshal attended a meeting of the Provincial Apex Committee on the National Action Plan, where they were briefed on the security situation, development projects, governance reforms, and counterterrorism measures in Balochistan. The Prime Minister directed authorities to deploy the Frontier Corps (FC) in Balochistan’s Rakhshan Division to establish a dedicated security corridor for the protection of the province’s mineral resources and related economic activities. The initiative will include additional FC wings, security check posts, surveillance systems, and border posts to strengthen regional security infrastructure.[4]

DG ISPR says May 2025 conflict exposed India’s practice of externalising internal problems and internalising external disputes

(From left) Rear Admiral Shifaat Ali Khan, ISPR DG Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry and Air Vice Marshal Tariq Ghazi addressing a press conference on May 7, 2026. — Screengrab via Geo News On May 06, Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, stated that Pakistan was preparing for the future security challenges as the country marked the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq. Speaking alongside Rear Admiral Shifaat Ali Khan and Air Vice Marshal Tariq Ghazi, he said the conflict had reshaped regional strategic dynamics and highlighted Pakistan’s preparedness across multiple domains of warfare. He described the conflict as a significant security episode that influenced regional perceptions and strategic calculations. Lt Gen Chaudhry argued that the conflict produced major strategic consequences that altered regional security dynamics. He stated that the conflict challenged prevailing regional narratives on terrorism and security. He further argued that Pakistan is increasingly viewed as a victim of terrorism and called for greater scrutiny of allegations made against the country. The DG ISPR identified Pakistan’s role as a regional stabiliser as another key outcome of the conflict. He also argued civil-military dynamics in the region have implications for stability and security. He further contented regional disputes should be addressed through political dialogue and constructive engagement rather than confrontation. Lt Gen Chaudhry rejected suggestions of a divide between the armed forces and the public, emphasizing the importance of national unity and public support. He stated that the conflict strengthened public confidence, resilience, and solidarity between the people, government, and armed forces, describing this as the “Bunyan-um-Marsoos effect.”.[5]

Iran and US peace deal continues to see saw

The clock is ticking: Islamabad triumphs historic US-Iran deal On May 31, Iranian officials reiterated their position that any agreement with the United States must fully safeguard Iran’s rights and interests. Iranian Foreign Minister, Mr. Abbas Araghchi stated that negotiations and exchanges of messages with the United States remain ongoing. He emphasized that the outcome cannot be assessed until clear result is reached. He also noted that the sanction relief and access to frozen Iranian assets remain key priorities for Tehran in any political agreement. Meanwhile, US President, Mr. Donald Trump reportedly submitted a revised proposal to Iran, highlighting that significant differences remain between the two sides. On May 30, Mr. Mohsen Rezaei, an adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mr. Mojtaba Khamenei, accused the United States of undermining diplomatic efforts by maintain pressure on Iran and advancing demands that Tehran considers unacceptable in ongoing negotiations. The remarks came as the United States reiterated its position that any agreement with Iran must prevent the development of nuclear weapons. The White House indicated that discussions on a potential agreement were continuing, although Iran denied that a final deal had been reached. Meanwhile, US officials emphasized that American forces remain present in the region and prepared to respond to developments. Despite ongoing tensions, diplomatic efforts continued. Iran reiterated that developments in Lebanon should be included in any broader settlement, while discussions aimed at reducing regional tensions remained underway. On May 28, US Vice President JD Vance stated that both sides were close to reaching an agreement, although key differences remained regarding Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile and the future of its uranium enrichment activities.[6] On May 23, Pakistan’s mediation efforts between Iran and the United States showed signs of progress following Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir’s visit to Tehran. According to ISPR, discussions focused on advancing consultations aimed at promoting regional peace, stability, and a negotiated settlement. During the visit, the Field Marshal met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Speaker Bagher Ghalibaf, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump stated that a memorandum of understanding with Iran had been largely negotiated, with discussions continuing on the remaining details. Pakistan’s mediations efforts continued to receive international recognition during May 2026. Several international stakeholders acknowledged Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue and supporting diplomatic efforts between the two sides.

Prime Minister’s Interactions with the COAS/CDF

During May 2026, Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff & Chief of Defence Forces (COAS & CDF) met 5 times:

  1. On May 10, at first anniversary of “Marka-e-Haq (May 9-10, 2025) in Islamabad. [7]
  2. On May 19, at Provincial Apex Committee on NAP in Quetta. [8]
  3. On May 20, during a banquet hosted by the President of Pakistan in honour of Prince Rahim Aga Khan V. [9]
  4. On May 25, during an official reception with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.[10]
  5. On May 27, when the Prime Minister extended Eid greetings to the Field Marshal.[11]

Foreign Dignitaries’ interaction with the COAS/CDF

COAS pick: Lt Gen Asim Munir — a brief profile
Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and Chief of Defence Forces (CDF)

During May 2026, there were 6 meetings of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, COAS and CDF with foreign dignitaries.

  1. HRH Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, on May 20, 2026, during a banquet hosted by the President of Pakistan.[12]
  2. H.E. Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, President of Iran; Mr. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of the Iranian Parliament; Mr. Abbas Araghchi, Foreign Minister of Iran; and Mr. Eskandar Momeni, Interior Minister of Iran, on May 23, 2026, in Tehran, as part of mediation efforts aimed at promoting de-escalation and dialogue between the United States and Iran. [13]
  3. US President Mr. Donald Trump, through a telephonic conversation on May 23, 2026.[14]
  4. Chinese President Mr. Xi Jinping, on May 25, 2026, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China.[15]
  5. Chinese Premier Mr. Li Qiang, on May 25, 2026, in Beijing, China.[16]
  6. Chinese Foreign Minister Mr. Wang Yi, on May 25, 2026, in Beijing, China.[17]

References

  1. “Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, COAS & CDF, presided over the 275th Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC) at General Headquarters (GHQ), Rawalpindi,” ISPR online, May 05, 2026, accessed May 15, 2026. https://www.ispr.gov.pk/press-release-detail?id=7671 ↑
  2. Muhammad Anis & Asim Yasin, “PM says Pakistan shattered enemy’s ‘illusion of invincibility’: CDF warns India of ‘painful consequences of any future misadventure’,” The News online, May 10, 2026, accessed May 11, 2026. https://e.thenews.pk/detail?id=481764 ↑
  3. Muhammad Anis & Asim Yasin, “PM says Pakistan shattered enemy’s ‘illusion of invincibility’: CDF warns India of ‘painful consequences of any future misadventure’,” The News online, May 10, 2026, accessed May 11, 2026. https://e.thenews.pk/detail?id=481764 ↑
  4. Saleem Shahid, “PM, CDF vow to crush terror, defend nation’s sovereignty,” Dawn online, May 19, 2026, accessed May 24, 2026. https://www.dawn.com/news/2001658/pm-cdf-vow-to-crush-terror-defend-nations-sovereignty ↑
  5. “Military says Pakistan ready for future challenges, places ‘India where they are’,” Geo News online, May 07, 2026, accessed May 15, 2026. https://www.geo.tv/latest/663296-dg-ispr-addresses-press-conference-on-marka-e-haq-anniversary ↑
  6. Patrick Wintour, Diplomatic Editor, “Donald Trump shares draft Iran peace agreement with Israel and other allies,” The Guardian online, May 29, 2026, accessed May 31, 2026. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/may/29/trump-on-verge-of-approving-peace-deal-with-major-iranian-concessions ↑
  7. Muhammad Anis & Asim Yasin, “PM says Pakistan shattered enemy’s ‘illusion of invincibility’: CDF warns India of ‘painful consequences of any future misadventure’,” The News online, May 10, 2026, accessed May 11, 2026. https://e.thenews.pk/detail?id=481764 ↑
  8. Saleem Shahid, “PM, CDF vow to crush terror, defend nation’s sovereignty,” Dawn online, May 19, 2026, accessed May 24, 2026. https://www.dawn.com/news/2001658/pm-cdf-vow-to-crush-terror-defend-nations-sovereignty ↑
  9. “President Asif Ali Zardari receives Prince Rahim Aga Khan V,” President of Pakistan online, May 20, 2026, accessed May 21, 2026. https://president.gov.pk/president-asif-ali-zardari-receives-prince-rahim-aga-khan-v-2 ↑
  10. “Field Marshal Asim Munir meets Chinese President Xi Jinping,” Pakistan Connect online, May 25, 2026, accessed May 26, 2026. https://thepakistanconnect.com/asim-munir-xi-jinping/ ↑
  11. “PM Shehbaz extends Eid greetings to armed forces chiefs, pays tribute to on-duty personnel,” DAWN online, May 27, 2026, accessed May 28, 2026. https://www.dawn.com/news/2003477 ↑
  12. “President Asif Ali Zardari receives Prince Rahim Aga Khan V,” President of Pakistan online, May 20, 2026, accessed May 21, 2026. https://president.gov.pk/president-asif-ali-zardari-receives-prince-rahim-aga-khan-v-2 ↑
  13. “Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, COAS & CDF concluded a short but highly productive official visit to Iran,” ISPR online, May 23 11, 2026, accessed May 24, 2026. https://www.ispr.gov.pk/press-release-detail?id=7691 ↑
  14. “Pakistan PM Shehbaz hails US President Trump’s ‘extraordinary efforts to pursue peace’ after phone call with army chief, leaders of other countries,” Asia News Network (ANN) online, May 23, 2026, accessed May 26, 2026. https://asianews.network/pakistan-pm-shehbaz-hails-us-president-trumps-extraordinary-efforts-to-pursue-peace-after-phone-call-with-army-chief-leaders-of-other-countries/ ↑
  15. “Field Marshal Asim Munir meets Chinese President Xi Jinping,” Pakistan Connect online, May 25, 2026, accessed May 26, 2026. https://thepakistanconnect.com/asim-munir-xi-jinping/ ↑
  16. “Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir meets Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang in Beijing,” Dunya News online, May 25, 2026, accessed May 28, 2026. https://dunyanews.tv/en/Pakistan/953698-field-marshal-syed-asim-munir-meets-chinese-prime-minister-li-qiang-in-beijing ↑
  17. “Chinese FM Wang Yi meets Field Marshal Asim Munir,” Dunya News online, May 25, 2026, accessed May 26, 2026. https://dunyanews.tv/en/Pakistan/953754-chinese-fm-wang-yi-meets-field-marshal-asim-munir ↑