ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday conferred Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military) on General Syed Aamer Raza, the newly appointed Commander of National Strategic Command (NSC), recognising his distinguished military service and leadership.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and the services chiefs also attended the ceremony.
General Raza has previously been decorated with the Hilal-i-Imtiaz (Military) and the Sitara-i-Basalat (Star of Valour), reflecting a career marked by operational excellence and distinguished service.
President confers Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military) upon General Syed Aamer Raza HI (M), S Bt
President Asif Ali Zardari conferred Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military) upon General Syed Aamer Raza, HI (M), S Bt, Commander National Strategic Command (CNSC), at a Special Investiture Ceremony held… pic.twitter.com/kizF3Ekwlc
— The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) August 11, 2026
The conferment of the Nishan-i-Imtiaz (Military), one of the country’s highest military honours, further recognises General Raza’s longstanding contribution to the country’s defence establishment at a time of significant institutional transformation.
Pakistan PM Sharif appoints General Aamer Raza as Commander National Strategic Command
Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, promoted Lieutenant General Aamer Raza, on July 24, to the rank of four-star general and appointed him as the Commander of the National Strategic Command.
He congratulated General Aamer Raza on his promotion and appointment, wishing him the best for undertaking this important responsibility.
The office of Commander of the National Strategic Command was established after the Pakistan Army, Air Force and Navy (Amendment) Bills 2025 came into force.
Islamabad, 24 July 2026.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has announced the promotion of Lieutenant General Aamer Raza, HI(M), SBt, Chief of the General Staff of Pakistan Army, to the rank of “Four-Star General” and his appointment as “Commander National Strategic… pic.twitter.com/U1Qk2K5nsl
— Prime Minister’s Office (@PakPMO) July 24, 2026
Under the same legislation, Field Marshal Asim Munir was appointed as Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces, while the post of Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) was abolished.
General Shamshad Mirza was the last officer to serve as Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee before the position was replaced under the new legal framework.
Profile of General Aamer Raza
General Aamer Raza’s promotion follows a distinguished professional career, including his service as Chief of General Staff (CGS) at General Headquarters (GHQ)—a pivotal appointment that demands strategic vision, operational acumen, and a comprehensive understanding of military affairs.
Also Read: Pakistan President Approves Nishan-i-Imtiaz for National Strategic Command Chief
As the head of the General Staff Branch of the Pakistan Army, he is regarded as the most knowledgeable and suitable officer for this new role.
His extensive experience, particularly as Director General Weapons and Equipment and Chairman Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT), provides a strong technical foundation for the demanding technological responsibilities associated with the office of Commander, National Strategic Command.
A sterling career in the Armoured Corps, complemented by a wide range of command, staff, and institutional appointments across the Pakistan Army, reflects his broad professional experience, technical expertise, and proven competence.
The appointment reinforces the country’s Armed Forces’ emphasis on selecting officers for their highest responsibilities on the basis of professional merit, experience, and suitability for the role.
Owing to his extensive experience and competence, General Aamer Raza is widely regarded as the best choice to lead this new headquarters, which will serve as the pivot for matters pertaining to the Strategic Domain.
