COAS Bajwa calls on Italian military, civilian leadership

ROME, ITALY: Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Wednesday visited Italy and called on  Chief of Italian Army, Italian Defence Minister and the Secretary General of Defence.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the officials from both sides discussed enhancing bilateral defence and security cooperation including potential joint initiatives.

The Italian leadership was highly appreciative of the role played by Pakistan in regional stability and also towards global security, said the military’s media wing.

They maintained that Pakistan is well on its way towards a prosperous future and that Italy and Pakistan will benefit by building on the existing relationship between the two countries.

Gen Bajwa was asked about the success formula in war against terrorism, to which the army chief said, it was due to the spirit of sacrifice and support of the nation, especially the people of tribal areas and the families of the martyrs.

“Though the fight is still ongoing, Pakistan has emerged stronger from the tribulations,” he added.

Gen Bajwa remarked that today’s Pakistan is open to the world and the government is looking for peace within and peace without to provide our people the prosperity they deserve after the difficult times.

During his stay, the army chief was also presented demonstrations of Italian defence capabilities both for land and amphibious operations. He also interacted with representatives of Pakistani community and the Italian defence industry.

The ISPR informed that the COAS will return to Pakistan later tonight after visiting UK and Italy.