COAS calls on King Salman in Saudi Arabia

RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa during an official visit to Saudi Arabia called on Saudi King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud on Sunday, ARY News reported.

According to Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Saudi king and the COAS agreed that both the countries share great history of cordial relations and 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, “with significant responsibility towards the entire Muslim ummah”, it said.

Bajwa is currently on a three-day official visit to Saudi Arabia. This is his maiden visit to Saudi Arabia as an Army chief.

ISPR statement said both the leaders re-emphasised on 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.

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 minster reassured the Army chief that the kingdom supports peace and stability in Pakistan in every way. COAS 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-to-military relations, defence, cooperation and regional security situation. Both leaders agreed to boost military cooperation and collaboration.