Pakistan, Jordan vow to expand military ties

King Abdullah visits GIDS, Tilla Firing Ranges; Praises army's operational capabilities

ISLAMABAD:

King Abdullah of Jordan on Sunday praised the operational capabilities of Pakistani soldiers as the country's civil and military leadership reiterated its commitment to further enhancing military-to-military cooperation with the Hashemite kingdom.

King Abdullah, who was on a two-day visit to Pakistan, spent a busy day visiting the Global Industrial and Defence Solutions (GIDS), the Tilla Field Firing Ranges and the Aiwan-e-Sadr, where he held talks with President Asif Zardari on bilateral, regional and international issues.

Upon arrival at GIDS, the King was received by Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and senior military officers. King Abdullah was accompanied by Princess Salma bint Abdullah and a high-level delegation, comprising Jordanian civil and military officials.

During the visit, the King was briefed on the structure, capabilities and product portfolio of GIDS. The briefing showcased Pakistan's progress in indigenous defence production, technological innovation and potential avenues for bilateral defence cooperation, said a military statement.

Later, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), King Abdullah II visited the Tilla Field Firing Ranges. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Azerbaijan's Defence Minister Vugar Valeh oglu Mustafayev were also present on the occasion. The guests witnessed a joint fire and manoeuvre exercise.

"The exercise demonstrated multi-domain operations, including conventional and air firepower, coordinated manoeuvres and spectrum-warfare capabilities supported by multi-purpose drones employed in various configurations and roles," the ISPR stated.

"King Abdullah II appreciated the high standards of training, professionalism and operational capabilities and preparedness demonstrated by the participating troops and aircrews," it added.

On the occasion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed Pakistan's deep respect and affection for King Abdullah II and the people of Jordan, noting that the visit reflected the enduring friendship, mutual trust and a shared desire for peace and development.

Field Marshal Asim Munir highlighted the strong defence partnership between Pakistan and Jordan. He reiterated Pakistan's commitment to further enhancing military-to-military cooperation with Jordan and jointly realising the mutual vision of a stable and peaceful region.

Earlier, King Abdullah conferred the 'Order of the Military Merit of First Degree' upon Field Marshal Asim Munir in recognition of his outstanding service and significant contributions to strengthening military cooperation between Jordan and Pakistan.

Separately, the Jordanian monarch met President Zardari at the Aiwan-e-Sadr. First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Senator Sherry Rehman also attended the meeting.

During the meeting, the president reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to close cooperation with Jordan and to further strengthening the longstanding and brotherly relations between the two countries. Both sides agreed to expand bilateral cooperation into new areas.

They also discussed the situation in the Middle East and announced their shared support for peace and stability in the region. They emphasised the establishment of a free, independent and viable Palestinian state under the two-state solution.

On the issue of Palestine, President Zardari and King Abdullah noted a "convergence of views" and reiterated their shared stance on post-war Gaza. They "rejected any displacement of Palestinians", according to a Pakistan Television report.

King Abdullah II expressed pride in the "deep-rooted ties" between Jordan and Pakistan, reaffirming Amman's commitment to expanding cooperation "across various sectors". Both leaders also agreed to maintain close coordination on bilateral, regional and global issues.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Climate Change Minister Musadik Malik, the foreign secretary and the ambassadors of Pakistan and Jordan were also present at the meeting.

Later, President Zardari conferred 'Nishan-e-Pakistan' on King Abdullah II. The King of Jordan awarded President Zardari the 'Wisam al-Nahda al-Murassa', which is conferred upon heads of state and distinguished personalities.

(WITH INPUT FROM APP)