RIYADH/RAWALPINDI – Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa met Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud on Sunday to discuss the security situation in the Middle East region.
The Saudi king and the COAS agreed that both the countries share great history of cordial relations and a deep spirit of brotherhood which has transformed into an enduring partnership. It was also acknowledged that both Pakistan and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are vital players in regional stability, and that both shoulder significant responsibility towards the entire Ummah.
Both leaders re-emphasized the need to continue working to eliminate the menace of terrorism and reinforce the mechanism to roll back extremism with even greater vigour. The Saudi crown prince and foreign minister were also present in the meeting.
The army chief, who reached Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on a three-day official visit on Saturday, was warmly received by Assistant Defence Minister Muhammad bin Abdullah al-Ayesh, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations.
The COAS also held meeting with deputy crown prince and Defence Minister HRH Muhammad bin Salman to discuss matters related to mutual interests and bilateral security cooperation.
The defence minister reassured the army chief that the kingdom supports peace and stability in Pakistan in every way, the ISPR said in a statement.
Gen. Bajwa reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the security and protection of the Holy Mosques and also the territorial integrity of the kingdom.
Later, General Qamar Javed Bajwa met Chief of General Staff of Saudi Forces Gen Abdul Rehman bin Saleh Al Bunyan to discuss military relations, defence cooperation and regional security situation.
Both leaders agreed to boost military cooperation and collaboration.
