ISLAMABAD: The Saudi and Pakistani military chiefs met on Monday to discuss the security situation in Afghanistan, defense relations, military training programs and other issues of mutual interest.
Lt. Gen. Fayyad Al-Ruwaili, the kingdom’s chief of general staff (CGS), held talks with his Pakistani counterpart General Qamar Javed Bajwa at the army’s headquarters in Rawalpindi, the Pakistani military’s media wing said in a statement.
“In view of the evolving regional security situation, Saudi CGS expressed full support for Pakistan’s efforts for peace in the region,” the statement said. “During the meeting, geo-strategic environment, security situation in Afghanistan and matters of mutual interest were discussed including bilateral defense cooperation and Training Exchange Programme.”
Al-Ruwaili acknowledged the Pakistani army’s achievements in the war against terror and its contributions for regional peace and stability.
“Saudi CGS thanked Pakistan Army for its sustained assistance in the training of Saudi Armed Forces and expressed his desire to enhance bilateral defense collaboration,” the statement said.
Earlier on Monday, Al-Ruwaili, along with a high-level Saudi military delegation, met Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan.
“Reaffirming the close fraternal ties between the two countries, Prime Minister Imran Khan underscored Pakistan’s commitment and support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” the PM’s Office said in a statement.
The PM expressed satisfaction at the “robust defense relationship” between the two countries and hoped that bilateral defense ties would continue to grow in the future.
Al-Ruwaili acknowledged the “excellent collaboration” between the two countries’ armies and appreciated the professionalism of Pakistan’s armed forces.
