Libyan C-in-C meets PM, COAS, CNS

ISLAMABAD: Commander-in-Chief of Libyan Armed Forces Lieutenant General Saddam Khalifa Abu Qasim Haftar, along with a delegation, Friday separately called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Naveed Ashraf.

Shehbaz welcomed the Libyan commander-in-chief and his delegation to Pakistan.

During the meeting, discussion was held on bilateral cooperation in various sectors between the two countries. The Libyan commander-in-chief thanked the prime minister for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to him in Pakistan.

Lt Gen Saddam’s meeting with Field Marshal Asim Munir at the General Headquarters, Rawalpindi, Lt Gen Saddam encompassed discussion on matters of mutual interest, evolving regional dynamics, security challenges and matters pertaining to defence cooperation, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) in a statement said.

Both leaders agreed to undertake defense industrial collaboration and exchange of technical expertise to address contemporary security challenges.

Upon his arrival at the GHQ, Lieutenant General Saddam Khalifa laid a floral wreath at the Yadgar-e-Shuhada to pay homage to the martyrs of Pakistan Army.

He was offered a warm welcome, followed by the guard of honour by a smartly turned-out contingent of the Pakistan Army.

Upon arrival at Naval Headquarters, Lt Gen Saddam was received by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf.

Both leaders discussed matters of mutual interest, regional maritime security situation, and avenues for enhanced cooperation in training and defence.

Admiral Naveed Ashraf highlighted Pakistan Navy’s initiatives for ensuring maritime security and peace in the region through regional maritime security patrols.

Lieutenant General Saddam appreciated and acknowledged Pakistan Navy’s contributions and unwavering commitment to collaborative maritime security efforts in the region.

Both leaders pledged to further strengthen and diversify the scope of existing bilateral defence relationship. Pakistan and Libya share longstanding brotherly relations marked by close naval cooperation. The visit of commander-in-chief of Libyan armed forces is expected to further enhance bilateral collaboration between the two countries.