'Global threat': Terrorism has potential of destabilising region, says COAS

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa has said that terrorism is a global threat which has the potential of destabilising the region that needs a well-coordinated response, the military said in a statement.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the army chief expressed these remarks during a meeting with Commander Iraqi Navy Lieutenant General Ahmed Jasim Maarij Abdullah Al Zayid on Wednesday.

During the meeting, the army's media wing said, matters of mutual interest, regional security issues and measures to further enhance bilateral defence collaboration were discussed.

The COAS said that Pakistan values its brotherly relationship with Iraq and acknowledged sacrifices rendered by the Iraqi nation in fighting terrorism. He also said that terrorism is a global threat which has the potential to destabilise the region that needs a well-coordinated response.

The ISPR also said that the visiting dignitary acknowledged the professionalism of Pakistan's armed forces and also offered his condolence on the loss of precious lives during the recent helicopter crash in Balochistan.

He appreciated Pakistan’s role in regional stability and also pledged to enhance military cooperation between the two forces, the statement added.

Earlier today, General Ahmed also called on Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi in Islamabad at the Naval Headquarters (NHQ) and appreciated the Pakistan Navy’s efforts and initiatives in support of collaborative maritime security in the region.

Upon arrival at the Naval Headquarters, the commander was received by the naval chief and was presented guard of honour and was introduced to principal staff officers, a Pakistan Navy news release said.

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During the meeting, matters of mutual interest including bilateral collaborations and regional maritime security milieu were discussed.

The naval chief highlighted the Pakistan Navy's initiative of Regional Maritime Security Patrols for ensuring maritime security and peace in the region. Later, the Iraqi commander was given a detailed briefing on Pakistan Navy roles and operational capabilities.

It is expected that the recent visit of the commander of the Iraqi Navy will further enhance bilateral collaboration between the two countries.

(With additional input from APP)