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Two different pictures were seen in the same day at Islamabad’s Noor Khan Air Base, which expressed the language of diplomacy in a new way. On one side there was a strict military style and on the other side there was a soft diplomatic image and standing between these two was Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir. This was not just a way of welcoming, but a well-thought-out strategy, which is now being seen as an example of ‘dress diplomacy’.

In the morning, when Iran’s high-level delegation, which included Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, reached the airbase, Asim Munir was seen in full military uniform. He had stars on his shoulders, a medal on his chest and a baton in his hand. His style clearly resembled that of a strict military commander.

He welcomed the guests, but the message from his gesture was clear that the Pakistani Army has taken the responsibility of security of this entire process in its hands. A few hours later, when the plane of US Vice President JD Vance landed there, the same Asim Munir was seen in a completely changed style. This time he was in a civil suit, which was giving him the image of a diplomatic leader.

Why the uniform in front of the Iranian delegation?

Wearing military uniform in front of Iranian representatives was meant to send a special message. Relations between Pakistan and Iran are to many sensitive issues, such as border dispute, situation in Balochistan and energy cooperation. In such a situation, Munir’s military appearance in front of leaders like Ghalibaf and Aragchi was an attempt to show that Pakistan is giving full guarantee of security through its army. Apart from this, Noor Khan Air Base itself is a military base, so being present there in uniform was also a way to show that this entire process was taking place under the supervision of the army.

Suit’s message in front of the American delegation

Pakistan’s relationship with America is different. Here, instead of showing military power, it was more important to present a balanced and diplomatic image. By wearing a suit while welcoming JD Vance, Munir indicated that Pakistan is a modern and responsible partner. With this step, an attempt was also made to show that the country is not only dependent on the army but is also politically mature.

Meaning of ‘dress diplomacy’

This entire incident is being considered a great example of ‘dress diplomacy’. That means giving message through clothes. This change was not part of any coincidence, but a strategic decision. Pakistan has taken the responsibility of playing the role of mediator between Iran and America, in such a situation it was necessary to give messages to both the parties in different ways.

On one hand, Pakistan wants to assure Iran that its security is in strong hands, while on the other hand, it wants to present itself as a reliable and understanding ally in front of America. It is not easy to strike this balance, but through this ‘dress diplomacy’ Pakistan has tried to show that it can strike a balance between the two sides.