This episode, we discuss the appointment of Pakistan's new army chief. After months of drama and debate, Gen. Asim Munir has taken the helm of the world's sixth-largest fighting force and only nuclear-armed Islamic military. But what exactly is the big deal in a general taking charge? Well, considering that the army's ruled Pakistan for over three decades and continues to influence its governance from behind the throne, the most powerful man in the country is the army chief, not the prime minister. So when the Pakistani military's top gun changes, the world takes notice.

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First, host Waj Khan and correspondent Monica Hunter-Hart discuss the profile of the new general and the challenges facing him. Then, Monica interviews The Atlantic Council's Uzair Younus about the dire economic climate in the country, as well as the political outlook over the coming months. Asia Stream is hosted by Wajahat S. Khan, Nikkei Asia's digital editor, and produced by Monica Hunter-Hart.

Related to this episode:

Pakistan nominates next army chief as incumbent blasts Imran Khan, by Adnan Aamir

Pakistan nears moment of truth in army chief sweepstakes, by Wajahat Khan