COAS, UK CDS discuss Afghan peace process, bilateral cooperation

Pakistan Army greatly values its friendly relations with the UK, Gen Bajwa tells Gen Carter

RAWALPINDI:

Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa discussed the current developments in Afghan peace process and measures taken to further enhance bilateral and defence cooperation with United Kingdom's Chief of the Defence Staff (CDS) General Sir Nicholas Patrick Carter on Monday.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), General Carter and General Bajwa discussed matters of mutual interest and regional security.

The dignitary appreciated Pakistan’s sincere efforts for peace and stability in the region, especially the Afghan peace process, the military’s media wing added.

The army chief thanked Gen Carter for UK’s contribution towards the fight against Covid-19 in Pakistan, according to the ISPR.

“Pakistan Army greatly values its friendly relations with the UK,” the ISPR's statement said quoting the army chief.

Gen Bajwa also offered condolences on the sad demise of His Royal Highness Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh and said that the world had lost a highly respected friend.

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On March 24, it was reported that Commander Strategic Command UK General Sir Patrick Nicholas Yardley Monrad Sanders called the COAS where matters pertaining to regional security and professional as well mutual interests were discussed.

"During the meeting, matters of professional & mutual interest and regional security issues were discussed," read a statement issued by the ISPR.

The visiting dignitary acknowledged and appreciated Pakistan Army’s sincere efforts in the fight against terrorism and efforts for bringing peace and stability in the region, especially the Afghan peace process, the statement added.

On March 8, it was reported that the US special envoy for Afghanistan shared with Pakistan the new strategy of the Biden administration, seeking national elections under the transitional Afghan government, officials said.

The contours of the new strategy were on top of the agenda when Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad held talks with the army chief at the GHQ.

Khalilzad was accompanied by General Austin Miller, commander of the US forces in Afghanistan, and other officials while General Qamar was assisted by DG Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Lt Gen Faiz Hameed, Pakistan special envoy on Afghanistan Muhammad Sadiq and PM Special Assistant on National Security Dr Moeed Yusuf.