General Qamar Javed Bajwa was expected to retire this year. (Reuters)
Pakistan Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa's term has been extended for another three years by Prime Minister Imran Khan in view of the "regional security environment", an official announcement said on Monday.
General Bajwa, 58, who was appointed as the chief of Army Staff by Nawaz Sharif in 2016, was to retire in November.
"General Qamar Javed Bajwa is appointed Chief of Army Staff for another term of three years from the date of completion of current tenure," a notification issued by Pakistan Prime Minister's Office read.
"The decision has been taken in view of the regional security environment," the Dawn reported, citing the decision made by Imran Khan.
Earlier, there were reports that Imran Khan may give another term to General Bajwa, who was working closely with him.
General Bajwa had accompanied Imran Khan on his first visit to the US.
In Pakistan, the appointment of the Army chief is the prerogative of the Prime Minister and his government. The practice of the senior most being made the chief is not followed.
General Bajwa's extension comes amid worsening ties between India and Pakistan following the Centre's decision to revoke Jammu and Kashmir's special status.
India has categorically told the international community that its move to scrap Article 370 of the Constitution, revoking the special status to Jammu and Kashmir, was an internal matter.