Minister of Defence (Pakistan)

The Minister of Defence of Pakistan is a high-ranking official in the Government of Pakistan responsible for overseeing the Ministry of Defence. The Minister is a member of the Cabinet and is typically a civilian, although historically military figures have held the position. The primary responsibility of the Minister of Defence is to formulate and execute policies relating to national security and defense, including the management and oversight of the Pakistan Armed Forces (Army, Navy, and Air Force).

The Minister's specific duties include:

• Policy Formulation: Developing and implementing national defense strategies and policies in line with the government's overall objectives.
• Budget Management: Overseeing the defense budget and allocating resources to the different branches of the armed forces.
• Coordination: Coordinating with other government ministries and agencies, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, to ensure a cohesive approach to national security.
• Parliamentary Oversight: Representing the Ministry of Defence in the Parliament of Pakistan and answering questions related to defense matters.
• Liaison with the Armed Forces: Serving as the principal point of contact between the civilian government and the military leadership.
• International Relations: Representing Pakistan in international forums related to defense and security.

The Minister of Defence reports to the Prime Minister of Pakistan. The role is crucial for maintaining civilian control over the military and ensuring that defense policy is aligned with the broader national interest. The Minister is supported by the Defence Secretary, a senior civil servant who is the administrative head of the Ministry of Defence. The precise scope of authority can be influenced by the relationship between the civilian government and the military establishment, which has varied significantly throughout Pakistan's history.