Khawaja Asif rejects reports of consultation between Nawaz, Shehbaz on COAS appointment.

ISLAMABAD -- Defence Minister Khawaja Asif Monday maintained that the army chief's appointment will be done on the prime minister's discretion.

Speaking with journalists outside the National Assembly, the minister said: "The prime minister has discretion regarding the army chief's appointment; therefore, the prime minister will make a decision on the appointment."

When questioned if a decision on army chief's appointment has been made, the defence minister responded in the negative.

Responding to another question about the role of PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif in the appointment, Khawaja Asif said that it will be done on the "premier's discretion" and he will decide.

When asked if Nawaz Sharif was not being consulted on the matter, the minister said: "Consultations have not yet taken place on the army chief's appointment. These are just newspaper reports."

Last week, PM Shehbaz flew to London - after returning from his visit to Egypt to attend and co-host the United Nations' COP27 - where he met the PML-N supremo and party's senior leadership.

It was reported that discussions during these high-level meetings revolved around crucial political matters in Pakistan including the new army chief's appointment.

Meanwhile, after extending his visit twice following health reasons, the prime minister returned to Islamabad earlier today; however, the decision on the important appointment - according to the defence minister - is yet to be taken.

Commenting on the U-turn taken by PTI chief Imran Khan on the United States-backed conspiracy - in relation to his ouster in April this year following a no-confidence motion in...