COAS, Korean envoy agree to boost defense cooperation

RAWALPINDI: Korean Ambassador to Pakistan Suh Sangpyo called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Thursday.
According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), matters pertaining to mutual interest, regional security and enhanced bilateral and defence cooperation were came under discussion during the meeting.
Speaking on the occasion, the COAS said that Pakistan attaches great importance to furthering bilateral relations with Republic of Korea in all domains.
Both reiterated the desire to further enhance bilateral relations including efforts for peace and security in the region. The visiting dignitary appreciated Pakistan’s sincere efforts for bringing peace and stability in the region, especially the Afghan Peace Process.
Earlier yesterday, United States (US) Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III on Wednesday telephoned Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Qamar Javed Bajwa to discuss matters related to mutual interest.
According to a statement released by the Pentagon, matters pertaining to regional stability and security came under discussion during the telephonic conversation.
During the telephonic phone call, US Defence Secretary Austin reaffirmed the importance of the US-Pakistan bilateral relationship and expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s support for Afghanistan peace negotiations.
Secretary Austin and General Bajwa also discussed the drawdown in Afghanistan, read the statement. US defence secretary and General Bajwa also discussed the importance of regional stability and the desire for the United States and Pakistan to continue working together on shared goals and objectives in the region, the press release stated.
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa last week had welcomed President Biden’s announcement of withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan, said Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) in a statement. The statement came after Angela Ageler, US Charge d’ Affairs to Pakistan called on Army chief Gen Bajwa at GHQ.
COAS welcomed President Biden’s announcement of the withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan. He further reiterated that a prosperous, stable and peaceful Afghanistan is in the best interest of Pakistan in particular and the region in general, the ISPR had said.–ISPR