Calls for enhanced defence ties with Australia
CANBERRA: General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) reached Australia on two days official visit on invitation of Australian Army Chief.
Upon arrival at the Defence Forces Headquarters in Canberra, COAS was given a tri service Guard of Honour. COAS called on Australian Army Chief Lieutenant General Angus J. Campbell and the Naval Chief Vice Admiral Timothy Barrett, says a press release issued by the Inter Services Public Relations, the military media wing Wednesday.
Later, COAS also met Australian Foreign Minister Ms. Julie Bishop and Defence Minister Ms. Marise Payne AR at Australian Parliament House.
During these meetings with Australian military and civilian leadership, COAS highlighted regional security situation and Pakistan Army s contributions towards peace and stability.
General Qamar Bajwa said that while Pakistan will continue to support all peace efforts however we expect that our security concerns are also addressed. He said that Pakistan has improved security situation and has a key role in regional economy.
The Australian leadership appreciated Pakistan’s efforts against terrorism and expressed commitment to further improve the bilateral collaboration in defence and security. During his meetings with representatives of Australian civil and military leadership, the Army Chief said enhanced defence ties between Pakistan and Australia will help boost bilateral cooperation.
The Army Chief visited the Australian Joint Operations and Planning Headquarters and Force Command headquarters. Gen Bajwa also visited the Australian Strategic Policy Institute and the Office of National Assessment. He said he was extremely impressed by the Australian goodwill for Pakistan and the desire of that country’s leadership to enhance bilateral relations.
He said he was extremely impressed by the Australian goodwill for Pakistan and the desire of that country’s leadership to enhance bilateral relations.
Both civil and military leadership of Australia appreciated Pakistan’s contributions and achievements in war against terror and acknowledged sacrifices of Pakistani nation and its Army in this connection. NNI