COAS, US defence minister hold telephonic talks

ISLAMABAD: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa and US Defence Minister Lloyd J Austin made a telephonic conversation on Monday.

The US defence minister reiterated Washington commitment to enhance relations with Islamabad. Austin also thanked General Bajwa for Pakistan’s continued support for establishing peace in Afghanistan.

According to Pentagon press secretary, the dignitaries discussed matters of mutual interests. Lloyd J Austin also expressed US willingness to enhance bilateral relations with Pakistan in other areas of mutual interest.

According to the defence sources, COAS Bajwa conveyed Pakistan’s policy and efforts in building peace in Afghanistan and in entire South Asia.

The duo emphasised enhancement in ties between Pakistan and US in defence and other related fields. The US defence minister also appreciated Pakistan’s measures to ensure ceasefire on the LOC and resuming Pak-India DG Military Operations communication.