COAS meets Turkish, Azerbaijan top military officials

RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa has acknowledged the Turkish engagements with Pakistan especially the ongoing efforts for continuing the positivity for peace in the region.

The COAS, on a day-long official visit to Turkey, called on General Hulusi Akar (Retired), Minister of National Defence of Turkey. General Yasar Guler, Commander Turkish General Staff and General Umit Dundar, Commander of the Turkish Land Forces were also present.

During the meeting, matters of mutual interests, regional security situation including recent developments in Afghan peace process and bilateral defence and security cooperation in various fields were discussed.

General Bajwa also reiterated that Turkey is one of the key Muslim countries in the region and that enhanced Pakistan-Turkey cooperation will have positive impact on regional peace and stability.

The dignitaries appreciated Pakistan's positive role for regional peace and stability, especially the Afghan peace process and pledged to continue working for better relations between two brotherly countries.

Earlier on arrival, the COAS was also presented with a guard of honour by a smartly turned out military contingent. Meanwhile, Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa, on an official visit of Republic of Azerbaijan, called on Colonel General Eyvazov Vilayat Suleyman oglu, Minister of Internal Affairs of Azerbaijan, Colonel General Elchin Guliyev, Chief of State Border Service (SBS) of Azerbaijan and Colonel General Ali Naghi Oglu Naghiyev, Chief of State Security Service at Baku, Wednesday, says an ISPR press release on Wednesday.

During the meeting, matters of mutual interest, bilateral defence & security cooperation, regional peace & stability and cooperation in energy, trade & connectivity projects between both brotherly countries were discussed.

The COAS said the emerging geo-strategic paradigm in the region necessitates our close cooperation and collective response against common challenges. The COAS also reiterated for increased mutually beneficial engagements at all levels and forums.

The dignitaries also acknowledged high standards of professionalism of the Pakistan Army and contributions for conflict prevention in the region especially efforts for bringing peace in Afghanistan.